The number one risk factor for melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun and tanning beds, with intense, intermittent exposure and blistering sunburns (especially in childhood) significantly increasing risk, along with having fair skin, many moles, and a family history.
The most important exogenous factor of melanoma is UV exposure, particularly intermittent sun exposure [6].
About 90-95% of melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun, with intense, intermittent exposure (like sunburns) being especially harmful, though artificial sources like tanning beds also contribute significantly. This UV damage alters the DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled growth that forms melanoma.
Some birthmarks change over time and some can develop into skin cancer, in rare cases. If you notice changes to your birthmarks, contact a healthcare provider.
Early signs of melanoma often involve changes to an existing mole or the appearance of a new spot, best remembered by the ABCDEs: Asymmetry (uneven halves), Border irregularity (jagged edges), varied Color, a larger Diameter (over 6mm), and Evolving (changing size, shape, or color). Watch for new moles, itching, bleeding, sores that won't heal, or any spot that looks different from others (the "Ugly Duckling").
You can have melanoma for months or even years without knowing, especially slow-growing types like lentigo maligna, which can develop over decades on sun-damaged skin, or melanomas in hidden spots like under nails or on the scalp, as early stages often look like normal moles. While some melanomas can be very aggressive and spread quickly (even weeks), others are slow, highlighting why regular skin checks are crucial for catching changes in moles (size, shape, color) early.
The most important warning sign of melanoma is a new spot on the skin or a spot that is changing in size, shape, or color. Another important sign is a spot that looks different from all of the other spots on your skin. (This is sometimes known as "the ugly duckling sign.")
The average age of people when it is diagnosed is 66. But melanoma is not uncommon even among those younger than 30. In fact, it's one of the most common cancers in young adults (especially young women). For survival statistics, see Survival Rates for Melanoma Skin Cancer by Stage.
A dermatologist can usually identify spots that are likely to be skin cancer just by looking at them. The doctor will then take a closer look at the cancerous spot using a special magnifying lens: Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a sore that won't heal, or a brown, black, or blue lesion.
Café-au-lait spots are light to dark brown pigmented birthmarks that commonly appear on a newborn's skin. Spots can change in size and number over time. More than six café-au-lait spots can be a sign of an underlying genetic condition like neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Find a Pediatric Primary Care Provider.
Find peace of mind after diagnosis
After your doctor receives the skin biopsy results showing evidence of melanoma cells, the next step is to determine if the melanoma has spread. This is called staging. Once diagnosed, melanoma will be categorized based on several factors, such as how deeply it has spread and its appearance under the microscope.
Lung and bronchus, colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers are responsible for nearly 50% of all deaths.
Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a major risk factor for most melanomas. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Tanning beds and sun lamps are also sources of UV rays.
If you've had melanoma skin cancer, you should avoid spending too long in the sun. Your doctor may suggest you use a high sun protection factor (SPF) sunscreen on any exposed skin.
Doctors often test a person's blood for levels of a substance called lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) before treatment. If the melanoma has spread to distant parts of the body, a high LDH level is a sign that the cancer may be harder to treat. This can affect the stage of the cancer. (See Melanoma Skin Cancer Stages.)
Three key warning signs a mole might be cancerous, often remembered by the ABCDE rule, are Asymmetry (uneven halves), irregular Border (jagged edges), and varied Colour (multiple shades like brown, black, red, blue). Other major signs include evolving changes (size, shape, elevation), bleeding, itching, or a sore that won't heal, especially if it looks different from your other moles (the "ugly duckling").
Getting your results
Your specialist should let you know when you can expect to get the results of the excision biopsy. They will be sent to the GP or the hospital where you had the procedure. It should take about 2 weeks for the results to come back, but sometimes it might be longer.
Melanomas most often develop in areas that have had exposure to the sun. This includes the arms, back, face and legs. Melanomas also can happen in areas that aren't as exposed to the sun. This includes the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and fingernail beds.
Antioxidants and Melanoma
Studies show selenium-rich diets may also reduce risk for melanoma and support survivorship. Foods rich in this antioxidant include Brazil nuts, scallops, lobster, barley, oats, whole wheat, wheat germ and milk.
Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world. Melanoma is often referred to as 'Australia's national cancer'.
Compared to patients who were treated within 30 days, patients with stage I melanoma were 5 percent more likely to die when treated between 30 and 59 days; 16 percent more likely to die when treated between 60 and 89 days; 29 percent more likely to die when treated between 91 and 120 days; and 41 percent more likely to ...
The symptoms of metastatic melanoma can vary depending on the part of the body affected:
Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, requires vigilance and awareness for early detection. Understanding the ABCDEs—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variations, Diameter, and Evolution—can be a lifesaving tool in recognizing potential warning signs and seeking timely medical attention.