Causes and Symptoms Of Melanoma
Melanoma is a rare form of cancer which affects the melanocytes found primarily in the skin. Melanocytes are the cells that produce the dark pigment – melanin, which is responsible for giving the skin, hair and eyes their natural color. Occasionally, this malignant tumor affects the bowel and eyes as well. At the outset, melanoma looks like a simple brown or black mole or blemish. Asymmetric moles or skin lesions with uneven borders which appear to be increasing in size may be indicative of melanoma, and should not be ignored as they may be malignant. It is also essential to keep in mind that melanoma can be fatal if left unattended. Melanoma is responsible for most of the deaths owing to skin cancer.
Treatments for Melanoma
Melanoma can be genetic or may be caused by a loss of or an alteration in the tumor suppression genes. Studies prove that melanoma is mainly caused due to exposure to the ultraviolet rays – UVA and UVB that cause damage to the DNA of cells. It is seen that this form of cancer is more widespread in Caucasian people who live in predominantly sunny climates. Hence, it is clear that a constant exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun should be avoided, especially when it causes sunburns. The use of sun-beds should also be avoided as they give out deep penetrating UVA rays that can cause cancer. The use of a sunscreen which has zinc, titanium and avobenzone is recommended as it effectively blocks out UVA and UVB rays. Wearing long-sleeved and ankle-length clothes, which cover the skin completely, along with a scarf to cover the face further help in preventing sun damage. The use of a broad-brimmed hat or an umbrella may also prove beneficial in preventing melanoma. Drinking plenty of water and increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants is advisable for the treatment of melanoma. Studies show that curcumin found in turmeric is believed to fight melanoma cells by causing them to self-destruct. Onions and garlic are known to contain allyl sulphides that restrict the growth of cancer causing chemicals in the body.
A skin biopsy is performed to confirm if the condition is melanoma and to ascertain the severity of the condition. Regardless of the numerous years of research, surgical removal of the malignant tumor, in its initial stages, is the best way of avoiding the further spread of the disease, thus becoming the closest cure. Chemotherapy, adjuvant therapy, immunotherapy, hyperthermia and radiation therapy are the alternative treatments for melanoma.
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