5 common melanoma misconceptions
Melanoma may be one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer, but it’s also the most misunderstood.
A study commissioned by the Melanoma Research Alliance revealed more people are prioritizing skin care, especially Gen Z.
“While public awareness around skin health has grown in recent years, misconceptions about melanoma are also on the rise,” says Dr. Sigrun Hallmeyer, an oncologist with Advocate Health Care. “Understanding the myths around melanoma can lead to earlier detection, better prevention and improved outcomes.”
Here are some common misconceptions about melanoma:
Myth 1: “Melanoma only affects older adults”
Fact: Many believe melanoma primarily affects older people, but that’s far from the whole story. While the risk increases with age, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially in women under 30.
“Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate based on age,” Dr. Hallmeyer adds. “There is a growing number of cases among young adults who’ve had excessive sun exposure or used tanning beds in their teens or twenties.”
Myth 2: “Only fair-skinned people get melanoma”
Fact: Fair-skinned individuals are at higher risk due to lower levels of melanin, which helps protect the skin from UV radiation. But melanoma can and does affect people of all skin tones. In fact, melanoma in people with darker skin is often diagnosed at later stages, making it more dangerous.
Melanoma can appear in places you might not expect, like the soles of the feet, palms of the hands or under fingernails — particularly in people with darker skin.
Myth 3: “Melanoma only appears as a dark mole”
Fact: Melanoma can look like a typical mole, but it can also appear as a new spot, a sore that doesn’t heal or a patch of skin that changes in color, size or shape. It isn’t always dark either. Some melanomas are pink, red or even colorless.
The ABCDE rule — asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter larger than 6 mm and evolving — remains a useful guideline. But experts caution that not all melanomas follow this pattern.
Myth 4: “Sunscreen is only for sunny days”
Fact: Cloudy weather doesn’t block ultraviolet (UV) rays. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning you can still be exposed to skin-damaging rays even on overcast days. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher should be a daily habit, not just a beach day essential.
Myth 5: “Melanoma isn’t as serious as other cancers”
Fact: Though less common than other skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is far more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths.
The good news is that melanoma is highly treatable when detected early, with a five-year survival rate of over 99%. That’s why regular skin checks, self-examinations and prompt follow up on any concerns are critical.
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