For people diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer, it might seem that successful treatment is next to impossible. This is understandable considering that malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer regardless if it has the lowest incidence rate in its subtype.
At the incidence rate of just 5 percent for all skin cancers, melanoma skin cancer is the ninth leading cause of death for all types of cancer. We are talking about breast, pancreatic and colorectal cancers, to name a few.
What's the good news?
You should not despair as melanoma is highly treatable given certain conditions. For one thing, you must seek medical care as soon as possible. Just like other types of cancer, skin cancer melanoma is very treatable when caught in its early stages.
This means that you have to be very vigilant about watching out for the signs of melanoma especially when you have its risk factors.
Risk factors include:
• Possessing naturally fair skin,
• Having a history of sunburn
• A family history of melanoma
• As well as a rare genetic disorder called xeroderma pigmentosum,
• Excessive sun exposure,
• Exposure to environmental carcinogens,
• Living in sunny or high-altitude areas
and a weakened immune system.
For another thing, you should avoid worsening your condition by avoiding the things that brought it in the first place. So many people already diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer still continue with their unhealthy ways.
For example, since sun exposure is a no-no, they substitute tanning beds. Or they continue with their illegal medicines that lead to weaker immune system, contrary to their doctor's recommendations.
Is there a better way?
Yes, there is a better way, one that points to prevention. You should eliminate your risks when and where possible. You have to limit your sun exposure only to the times when you have to get your vitamin D from sunlight.
This means 10-15 minutes in the early morning sunlight but never past 10 a.m. and before 4 p.m.
When in the sun, always slather on organic sunscreen with an SPF of 15 (minimum) about thirty minutes before exposure. And do remember to apply it even on the hidden areas like back of ears and web of toes as well as applying every 2 hours at most.
Even these hidden areas receiving little to no sun exposure can be the starting site for melanoma.
You should also add another layer of protection to your sunscreen. We are referring to the sun protection clothing that deflects the sun's UV rays when worn in the sun.
You can choose from shirts and pants for all ages, hats and Sun Protection Umbrella in numerous sizes as well as sunglasses in many styles.
Sure, genetics play a part in contracting melanoma and other skin cancers, but for the most part, you can control your risks.
Just make sure that you take measures to protect yourself against the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation first and adopting a healthy lifestyle second.
Ultimately, the treatment of melanoma skin cancer may involve medications and surgery but it is self-care that matters the most. Without caring for your body first and foremost, the latest in medical science will be for naught.
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