Condition: Skin Cancer (Melanoma)

Skin cancer (melanoma) is a condition in which abnormalities develop in the cells of the skin. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer, and has the poorest prognosis of all types of skin cancer. Melanoma causes more deaths than any other skin cancer or disease. Skin cancer (melanoma) may form as an unusual lesion on the skin, or it may cause a mole to suddenly change in shape or color. People with fair skin, as well as older people, are more likely to develop melanoma. Significant exposure to and skin damage from the sun, including severe sunburns that blister, also increase the risk of melanoma skin cancer. Protecting skin from sun exposure through protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen can help protect against melanoma skin cancer.