Today may seem like an ordinary day to most, however, for those in or close to the healthcare field, it is Melanoma Monday.
Not only that, this day accompanies the entire month which is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer, although it is less common than some of the other types of skin cancers, melanoma is considered one of the most dangerous skin cancers out there because it is much more likely to spread across your body if not caught and treated early on. This cancer develops when melanocytes (the cells that give your skin its tan or brown color) begin to grow out of control.
Melanoma can grow very quickly, making it life-threatening in as little as 6 weeks. Going untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body and organs. This cancer can develop anywhere on the skin, however, it is more likely to start on the chest and back for men, and the legs for women. The neck and face can also be common sites for melanoma to form. A reason why this can go unnoticed is the fact it doesn’t have to appear as a new spot and can even change the appearance of an existing mole or freckle.
It is unclear what exactly causes all melanomas, however, exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning lamps and beds can heavily increase your risk of developing melanoma. Taking necessary precautions such as avoiding tanning beds, wearing sunscreen, regularly checking your skin for abnormal moles is incredibly important and recommended for everyone. The first warning sign of melanoma is a new spot appearing on your skin or an existing mole or freckle that changes in its appearance. Some of these changes could be the spot growing larger, the edges of the spot looking irregular, the spot being mottled with a range of color, or itching and bleeding.
History of Melanoma Monday
Accompanying the month of Skin Cancer Awareness is Melanoma Monday annually on the first Monday in May. Since melanoma can spread very quickly and become deadly in no time, it is encouraged to celebrate this day along with the entire month. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages others to wear orange as a symbol of skin cancer awareness as well as posting on social media using the tag #MelanomaMonday.
History of Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a national awareness month occurring every year in May, just in time to spread the facts and warning signs of skin cancer before the sunny months and scorching sun of summer. This month is highly promoted by The Skin Cancer Foundation, which was founded in 1979 with the goal to empower people to take a proactive approach daily to prevent all types of skin cancers. You can learn more about the month itself here at The Skin Cancer Foundation website.
The Importance of Melanoma Monday and Skin Cancer Awareness
It is well known among all of us that any type of cancer can be incredibly scary to have. For those not quite familiar with all types of skin cancer, melanoma is considered the most invasive form and has the highest risk for death. This is why it is so incredibly important to take precautions to lessen your risk of skin cancer, as well as getting screened for skin cancer. It is not uncommon for some to not even suspect having a type of cancer, even if you believe you are healthy, annual checkups and screenings can do nothing except better your health.
Some may be worried about the cost, however many places offer free skin cancer screenings so you can benefit your health at no cost. You can learn more about skin cancer screenings and where you can get one here. Anyone can get skin cancer at any age, although it mostly depends on a person’s background and history of exposure to ultraviolet rays. Please make sure to take precautions and get your screenings done to ensure your health. All of us at the Nursa send our best regard to those currently fighting skin cancer along with the nurses and healthcare staff working every day to help those in their battle.
Sharing facts about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure along with encouraging people to take advantage of free screenings as well as check their skin for warning signs at home will undoubtedly save lives. However, the work of spreading awareness can not be done alone, be sure to share the facts and warning signs on social media along with telling your loved ones so we can all battle skin cancer together.
