News & Information

If you have an unusual mole, don’t panic. Some types of strange-looking skin discolorations or moles may be just that – moles. In addition, a type of benign mole called dysplastic nevi resembles skin cancer, but is completely harmless. The real malignant melanoma (invasive skin cancer) is a different story, however. Malignant melanoma annually kills about 8,790 people in the U.S and is usually caused by intense, occasional UV exposure. If recognized and treated early, malignant melanoma can be cured, but if it goes unnoticed for too long it can be fatal.

Malignant melanoma originates in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the basal layer of the epidermis. DNA damage to skin cells causes the melanocytes to multiply rapidly, forming malignant skin tumors. Usually malignant melanomas are brown or black, but they can also be red, blue, purple, pink, white or skin-tone. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 120,000 new U.S. patients contract malignant melanomas each year.

You may be at risk for melanoma if you live in an extremely sunny area (Hawaii or Florida, for instance), if you have a family history of skin cancer or if you have one or more dysplastic nevi. (While dysplastic nevi are harmless in themselves, people who have them are at significantly more risk for developing melanoma.) In addition, artificial tanning booths or tanning beds increase your exposure to UV rays and can heighten your chances for contracting malignant melanoma. (1)

If you are at risk for malignant melanoma, you should consider a cancer insurance policy from CancerPlans.com. Cancer insurance provides a lump sum benefit upon first diagnosis of malignant melanoma, giving you the financial resources you need to focus on your recovery. Compare top-rated carriers, examine cancer insurance products and request quotes on CancerPlans.com.

(1) What is Melanoma? July 2012. Skin Cancer Foundation. July 17 2012.

http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/melanoma