Gamer Ninja diagnosed with melanoma. Everything You Need to Know About Skin Cancer

In a post on X, Ninja wrote, “Okay, I’m still a little in shock but wanted to keep you all updated. A few weeks ago I went to a dermatologist for the annual skin/mole check that Jess proactively scheduled for me. There was a mole on the sole of my foot that they wanted to remove just to be careful. It came back as melanoma, but they’re optimistic we caught it early. I had another dark spot appear near it, so today they biopsied it and removed a large area around the melanoma with the hope that under the microscope they would see clear non-melanoma edges and we would know that. We’ve got this.”

Here are essential details about melanoma:

What is melanoma?

According to a report by Mayo ClinicMelanoma is a form of skin cancer that arises from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin pigment. Melanin gives skin its color.

Also read: Scientists discover world’s smallest skin cancer, see photo

Typically, melanoma develops on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the arms, back, face, and legs. This can also happen in the eyes. In rare cases, melanoma may develop internally, such as within the nasal passages or throat.

what are the symptoms?

Early symptoms of melanoma usually include changes in existing moles or the appearance of new pigmented or irregular-looking growths on the skin. It is important to note that melanoma can appear even without the presence of a pre-existing mole and can develop on otherwise healthy skin.

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Although symptoms of melanoma can arise anywhere on the body, the condition most commonly occurs in areas exposed to sunlight, such as the arms, back, face, and legs.

However, melanoma can also occur in areas with less exposure to sunlight, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and fingernails.

dark brown/black sesame seeds

The MayoClinic reports that individuals with brown and black skin usually have darker moles, which often appear dark brown or black. These moles usually exhibit a well-defined border, clearly separating them from the surrounding skin.

Also read: England becomes first country in the world to introduce ‘under the skin’ injection for cancer, which will reduce treatment time by seven minutes

They are usually oval or round in shape and usually smaller than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) in diameter. Moles usually begin to appear during childhood, and new moles may continue to form until approximately age 40.

By adulthood, most individuals have between 10 and 40 moles. It’s worth noting that moles can evolve in appearance over time, and some may even fade away as a person ages. Mayo Clinic noted.

If you notice these changes, consult a doctor

Asymmetrical shape: Look for moles with halves that look completely different from each other.

Changes in color: Be wary of growths with multiple colors or irregular color patterns.

Changes in size: Monitor moles for new growth greater than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) in diameter.

Changes in symptoms: Pay attention to new symptoms, such as itching or bleeding, associated with the warts.

Abnormal borders: Look for moles with irregular, notched, or scalloped borders.

How to reduce the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers?

Limiting sun exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).

Using sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin with clothing, hats, and sunglasses to protect against harmful UV rays.

Also read: Netherlands gives out free sunscreen to tackle this serious health problem

Seek shade: Stay in the shade whenever possible, especially during periods of intense sunlight.

Avoiding tanning beds: Avoid using tanning beds, as they emit harmful UV radiation.

Self-examination: Check your skin regularly for any changes, including new moles, changes in the size, shape or color of existing moles, and any abnormal growths or spots.

Getting regular skin checkups: Schedule an annual skin checkup with a dermatologist, especially if you have a history of skin cancer or multiple moles.

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Published: March 28, 2024, 01:51 PM IST