Melanoma is a type of skin cancer caused by changes in skin cells called melanocytes. Risk factors for melanoma include fair skin, light hair or eye color, sun exposure, sunburn history, and use of tanning beds. Early detection of melanoma is important, as it involves monitoring moles and skin spots for changes in appearance, size, or other characteristics. Prevention strategies encompass regular skin exams, sun protection with broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, limiting sun exposure, and avoiding tanning beds. Treatment options are determined by the severity and stage of melanoma, ranging from surgery to chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

1. Risks
You are more likely to develop
melanoma if you:
Have fair skin, blue or green eyes, or
red or blonde hair.
Live in sunny climates or at high
altitudes
Spend a lot of time in high levels of
sunlight because of your job or other
activities.
Have had one or more blistering
sunburns
Use tanning devices.
References:
American cancer society: Melanoma skin
cancer. (2013). Retrieved from
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/skincan
cer-melanoma/index
"Melanoma centers of excellence". (2001-2011).
Retrieved from
http://www.melanomahopenetwork.or
g/TwoCol.asp?SID=6294
National cancer institute: Melanoma. (2013).
Retrieved from
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/ty
pes/melanoma
CAUSES AND PREVENTION
Melanoma is caused by changes in cells called melanocytes,
which produce a skin pigment called melanin. Melanin is
responsible for skin and hair color. It can appear on normal skin,
or it may begin as a mole or other area that has changed in
appearance. Some moles that are present at birth may develop
into melanomas.
The risk of developing melanoma increases with age. However, it
is also frequently seen in young people.
HOW YOU CAN DETECT AND PREVENT
The American Cancer Society recommends professional skin
examinations every year for people older than 40, and every 3 years for
people ages 20-40. You should also examine your skin once a month.
Call your doctor of you notice any changes.
Always apply high-quality sunscreens with sun protection factor (SPF)
ratings of at least 15, even when you are only going outdoors for a short
time. Also apply large amounts of sunscreen on all exposed areas, which
do include ears and feet.
Look for sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB light and waterproof
formulas have been proven to work.
Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply it
frequently, especially after swimming.
ARE YOU AT RISK FOR MELANOMA?
Being educated of the warning signs can save your life!
Contact for support: Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute | 4100 John R Detroit, MI 48201 | 1-800-527-6266

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What does Melanoma do to your body?
Melanoma initially forms on the skin, which is a part of the integumentary system. This system is responsible for protecting the body's internal organs and tissues from the
external environment in order for the body to continue to work properly (maintain homeostasis). When melanoma forms it effects pigmentation of the skin and protection against
UV Radiation. However, the effects of melanoma that has remained localized to an area on the skin are minimal. If the cancer spreads to other places such as your eyes it can
affect the nervous system and in worse cases it can spread to vital organs such as the lungs if not detected.
ALWAYS PROTECT YOURSELF
FROM THE SUN.
DETECTION AND TREATMENT OPTIONS
A mole, sore, lump, or growth on the skin can be a sign of
melanoma. The ABCDE system can help you detect possible
symptoms of melanoma.
Asymmetry: One half of the abnormal are is different from the
other half. Borders: The edges of the growth are irregular.
Color: changes from one are to another, with shades of tan,
brown, or black. Diameter: the spot is usually larger than 6 mm
in diameter. Evolution: the mole keeps changing appearance.
If Melanoma is detected treatment options will be taken into the
hands of your doctors based on how severe the case is.
Surgery such as Mohs microscopic surgery or outpatient,
chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are among the common
treatments that are preformed.
Contact for support: Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute | 4100 John R Detroit, MI 48201 | 1-800-527-6266
PICTURE SHOWS LAYERS OF SKIN
WITH MELAMONA.
SUNSCREEN IS KEY TO
PREVENTING MELANOMA!
UVA AND UVB RAYS ARE AN
ONGOING PROBLEM WITH THE
DEVELOPMENT OF MELANOMA.
ARE YOU AT RISK FOR MELANOMA?
BEING EDUCATED OF THE WARNING SIGNS CAN
SAVE YOUR LIFE!