skin disorders
Melanoma
Prevention of Melanoma
Because melanoma is caused by Overview of Sunlight and Skin Damage , people can help prevent this cancer by doing the following, starting in early childhood: Avoidance : For example, seeking shade, minimizing outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM (when the sun’s rays are strongest), and avoiding sunbathing and the use of tanning beds (particularly adolescents and young adults) Clothing : For example, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and broad-brimmed hats Sunscreens : At least sun protection factor (SPF) 30 with UVA and UVB protection used as directed and reapplied every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating but not used to prolong sun exposure Doctors do not know with certainty whether these measures decrease the chances of people developing or dying of melanoma. However, using tanning beds, particularly by young people, does seem to increase the risk of melanoma. Anyone who has had a melanoma is at risk of developing other melanomas. Therefore, such people need regular skin examinations. People who have many moles should have a total body skin examination at least once a year. People can be taught to examine themselves to detect changes in existing moles and to The ABCDEs of Melanoma . In people without risk factors, doctors do not know whether routine yearly skin examinations reduce the number of deaths from melanoma. 