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Taking steps to prevent melanoma is the best first step in protecting yourself and your skin. It is important to learn about all of the risk factors. Get a better understanding of melanoma, potential of treatment, and patient resources below.
Melanoma is a type of cancer, most often of the skin. It occurs in melanocytes – the cells that produce the pigment melanin that colors the skin, hair and eyes. These cells also make moles, or nevi. Having moles can be a risk factor for melanoma, but it is important to remember that most moles DO NOT become melanoma.
Unlike other cancers, most melanomas can often be seen on the skin, making it easier to detect in its early stages. If left undetected, however, melanoma can spread to distant sites or distant organs. This is referred to as metastatic melanoma. When melanoma spreads, it most commonly spreads to the liver, lungs, bones and brain, making treatment more difficult.
Research suggests that nearly 90% of cutaneous melanoma cases can be linked to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays – either from natural sources, like the sun, or from artificial sources, like indoor tanning beds. However, melanoma can occur in all melanocytes throughout the body.
When we think of melanoma prevention, we often think of the usual: using sunscreen, covering up, not burning and staying out of tanning beds. But, did you know that finding a suspicious mole or spot and having it checked out by a medical professional or dermatologist is considered one of the most important steps to preventing cutaneous (skin) melanoma? Detecting melanoma when it’s early enough to treat could mean the difference between life and a life-threatening illness. Research suggests that nearly 90% of cutaneous melanomas are related to UV exposure. Therefore, most, but not all, melanomas are thought to be preventable. Melanoma prevention is best approached in two ways:
A diagnosis of melanoma can spur a range of emotions – from anger, denial and stress to fear, shock and even isolation. These emotions are not limited to patients, but also affect those around them, including caregivers, family members and friends. Below, find a list of resources that might be helpful for you!
The journey of survivorship doesn’t end when you walk out of your doctor’s office. MyVictory is a fitness-streaming platform for cancer survivors and those who support them. In partnership with the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), this resource has been made possible by the support of Bristol Myers Squibb. They have created a survivorship program to help the 1.3 million melanoma survivors in the U.S.
Use promo code (MRF-6MonthsFree) to get your free membership and access to over 1,000 classes in their On-Demand Library. Free membership is available for your first six months and only $9.99/month thereafter!
Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to benefit all Australians affected by cancer, and their families and careers. Cancer Australia aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer by leading and coordinating national, evidence-based interventions across the continuum of care.
Find helpful resources and information on drug funding and reimbusment, screening guides Cancer Care Ontario’s programs drive our mission to improve the cancer system. Our programs help advance cancer care through:
An initiative by Bristol Myers Squibb, Survivorship Today aims to share stories of people across the U.S. who have been affected by cancer and advance our collective understanding of what it’s like to live with the disease today.
Learn more about the importance of the patient voice and read more about Merck’s patient support programs that may help you.
Thank you to our Global Melanoma Coalition sponsors! Their support makes all of our education, awareness and programs possible as we partner across the globe.
Any information provided by the global melanoma coalition made available via the website is offered for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation or endorsement of any drug, device or treatment or representation that a particular drug, device or treatment is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Questions regarding any drug, device or treatment should be directed to your healthcare provider.
