Causing approximately forty-eight thousand deaths around the world each year, melanoma proves to be the most deadly form of skin disease yet discovered. The effects of this disease are found in the form of tumors that become evident in the human body, including exposed skin or other areas. This form of cancer is most prevalent in Caucasian people but has affected all races and regions. Research indicates that https://acls-bls-nashville.com/1653/common-causes-of-cancer-by-kody-johnson/people under the age of forty years old tend to get this disease in comparison to the older generations. With melanoma, along with every form of disease, comes the next inevitable question: Can a person be cured of it? The answer is complicated.
If diagnosed early on in the process by a qualified physician, the tumor can be removed. Later diagnosis can lead to a situation in which the cancer cannot be removed and effects may impact the person for the rest of their life. No one knows the reason people get infected by melanoma, but theories exist with sufficient evidence. Spending too much time in the sun or tanning can increase the chances of a person getting the disease. In the same manner, keeping the amount of time spent in these conditions at a low and consistent level will lower the possibility of melanoma.
Usually starting as a mole, melanoma can be detected if a person knows what to look for. Any changes to moles on someone’s body are a potential sign as well as any unusual growths even in places that are seemingly not in the direct line of sunlight. Contacting a doctor is, arguably, the most significant step of the process if a person does indeed have this condition. From there, the doctor should be able to determine the severity of the situation and whether the symptoms are threatening. It is important to know if family members have had a history of melanoma as this is often viewed as at least a minor factor in a person getting melanoma. Doctors disagree about whether this disease is hereditary but come to the consensus that the main cause of melanoma is ultraviolet light exposure. Things that may increase the risk of someone getting melanoma include lots of moles on any body parts, an immune system that is not strong, and vulnerability to sunburns.
Once in an appointment with a qualified physician, a person will learn what exactly is going on and if their body is affected by melanoma. There are a variety of treatments and stopping the tumor growth is the main goal. Surgeries are made available for the most serious cases. From chemotherapy to radiation, these processes are physically and mentally demanding but sometimes provide the only viable option for continued health and life.
Despite the death rate of people affected by melanoma, the medical field is gradually making advances and learning how to properly deal with and manage the problem this disease presents. As the largest organ in the human body, the skin is susceptible to diseases such as this. Knowing what melanoma is and how to prevent it is vital to living a healthy life.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/melanoma/DS00439
American Cancer Society: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/skincancer-melanoma/
