Melanoma In the U.S

1. What is it? Melanoma is one of the three main types of skin cancer. It begins in the cells that make the pigment Melanin, the Melanocytes. It can be seen as a mole (skin Melanoma), or in other pigmented tissues. (e.g. the eyes and intestines) Estimates for Melanoma in the U.S. for 2012: Cases: 76,250 Deaths: 9,180 Melanoma In the U.S • Melanoma Treatment: • FDA-approved drugs: • Aldesleukin • Dacarbazine • Ipilimumab • Proleukin • Vemurafenib • Yervoy • Zelboraf http://www.myclearskin.com/dermatology-nyc/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/sun-screen.jpg • Who is Most At Risk? • Whites • Males • People with a fair complexion: skin that freckles and burns easily, light colored eyes, and red or blonde hair • People who are exposed to sunlight often • People with a history of blistering sunburns during childhood • People with a family history of melanoma • Prevention: • Seek the shade • Do not burn • Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths • Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher • Keep newborns out of the sun http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt-ws327Quw/TZHZoCFQvTI/AAAAAAAABJk/3y5yaQdp2VY/s1600/sun-illustration2.gif