Each year on the first Monday of May, we recognize Melanoma Monday — a powerful reminder of the importance of skin health and early detection. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, but when caught early, it is highly treatable.
Early detection can save your life. Here's what you need to know.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma begins in the cells that produce melanin — the pigment that gives your skin its color. While it can develop anywhere on your body, it most often appears in areas exposed to the sun, like your back, legs, arms, and face. However, it can also form in hidden places like under the nails, on the soles of your feet, or even in the eyes.
Why Early Detection Matters
When melanoma is found early, before it spreads deeper into the skin or to other parts of the body, the five-year survival rate is about 99%. However, that number drops dramatically if melanoma progresses.
That’s why monthly skin self-exams and annual full-body skin checks with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Jeremy Udkoff are essential.
The ABCDEs of Melanoma
When checking your skin, remember the ABCDE rule:
- A - Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn't match the other.
- B - Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- C - Color: Uneven colors, with shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
- D - Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
- E - Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms (such as itching, tenderness, or bleeding).
If you spot anything unusual, don't wait. Schedule a professional skin evaluation right away.
Additional Warning Signs to Watch For
- A sore that doesn't heal
- Spread of pigment from a spot into surrounding skin
- Redness or swelling beyond a mole's border
- Changes in sensation — itchiness, tenderness, or pain
- Scaliness, oozing, or bleeding from a mole
How to Protect Yourself
- Wear sunscreen daily with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating
- Avoid tanning beds
- Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses
- Stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 AM–4 PM)
Most importantly — make skin checks a routine part of your life.
Make Skin Health a Priority Today
In honor of Melanoma Monday, take a few minutes to check your skin today. Better yet, call to schedule a professional skin check with Dr. Jeremy Udkoff.
Your skin can’t speak for itself — but you can listen. Early action could save your life.
👉 Book your annual skin check today at (412) 563-0217!
