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Skin cancer is found to be the most prevalent type of cancer in the U.S., afflicting one in every five Americans by the age of 70. Of the various forms of skin cancer, melanoma is considered the deadliest. It is anticipated that more than 8,200 people in the U.S. will lose their lives to melanoma this year.
In observance of Skin Cancer Awareness Month this May, two melanoma survivors are recounting their battles against this severe variant of the disease. Interestingly, one of them thought that their initial symptoms were simply due to aging and excessive sun exposure.
Melanoma arises from the melanocytes which are responsible for skin pigmentation. Predominantly, this type of skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet light, but it can affect individuals of all skin types. Some melanoma cases are found in younger patients, signifying its prevalence amongst this demographic, as observed by Nayoung Lee, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Langone Health.
She further explained that early detection of melanoma provides substantial chances of survival. However, if the disease advances substantially before being diagnosed, the survival rate falls drastically as the cancer can quickly spread from the bloodstream to the lymph nodes and other vital organs.
Abby Weiner, 43, a mother of three living in Washington, D.C., had always protected her skin judiciously from the sun. Despite this, she was taken aback by her melanoma diagnosis in October 2023. She had a spot on her cheek which darkened and grew larger over time, but she dismissed it as a result of aging and sun exposure. It was only when her sister prompted her to consult a doctor, did a biopsy reveal her melanoma.
Following her diagnosis, Weiner underwent Mohs surgery, a layered removal of skin, twice to fully remove the tumor and surrounding skin. She now urges everyone to protect themselves from the sun, wearing protective clothing and applying SPF 30 or higher sunscreen daily. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are also critical, according to her.
Similarly, Steve Murray, 68, from the Washington, D.C. area, advises proactive sun protection and regular check-ups to catch any pre-cancerous or cancerous skin conditions early. His own experience of being diagnosed with three different types of skin cancer over his life underlines the seriousness of sun damage.
Dr. Lee of NYU Langone Health provides important advice to the public on skin cancer prevention. His tips include refraining from sunbathing, daily use of sunscreen regardless of the weather, using physical sunscreen that contains zinc or titanium, regular skin self-examinations, and observing the ABCDE rule to identify potentially cancerous moles or spots. The ABCDE guideline involves checking for Asymmetry, Border irregularities, Color variations, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolution in the size, shape, or color of moles.
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