Melanoma skin cancer, which is undeniably linked to sun exposure, is by far the most common skin disease-related cause of death worldwide and year after year, its incidence has been progressively increasing. In the last 20 years, 118 deaths in Malta were related to Melanoma, with 670 cases diagnosed in all, translating into a mortality rate of 17.6%. 1 in every 6 individuals on the island, are being diagnosed with melanoma too late.

For the past 15 years before summer begins, Malta has been joining the rest of Europe in a Melanoma Day Campaign, and this year is no different. This year’s campaign will highlight the importance on spotting Melanoma in its early stages, which has key implications on survival. If Melanoma is caught early enough, surgical interventions may remove the cancer, with a success rate of 90-95%. Periodic self-examination and medical assistance when in doubt should become a standard practice.

Melanoma usually appears as a brown/black patch or lump with irregular features, and may develop anywhere on the skin, most often within a pre existing mole. The most common would be on the trunk on men, and trunk and legs on women. The trunk is made up of the abdomen and the thorax. Exposure to ultraviolet rays of the sun, and sunburn are the single most important cause of melanoma. Episodes of sunburn in childhood are also strongly related to the development of melanoma; with cancer-inducing damages to the DNA during these episodes being irreversible.

This damage is likely to develop into skin cancer even up to decades later. An increase in sunbathing activities has led to further increase of Melanoma incidence, with most perceiving sunbathing as a pleasurable activity, without realising the risk induced. 

Exposure to UV rates can be cut down by avoiding being outdoors between 11am and 4pm, and using sun protection cream, not only at the beach or near the pool, but whenever outdoors. Children are exposed to sun rays during their break time or outdoor sports activities, and thus they should be protected then too. Sunscreen factor 20+ should be applied every 2-3 hours, and the use of hats, sunglasses and umbrellas cannot be stressed enough. In reality, a total sun block does not yet exist, and one should not stay in the sun for long periods, even if protected through the measures explained.

Tanning beds and booths induce tanning by means of ultraviolet radiation, which although efficient in not burning the skin, is still related to skin cancer.

Even though Melanoma is less common than other skin cancer disease, it is far more dangerous and causes 75% of skin-cancer related deaths, causing about 48,000 deaths worldwide per year.  More than 160,000 cases are diagnosed and the disease is more frequent in women than in men, and amongst those living in sunny climates. 

The cancer, which invades the skin, may spread to other body organs and have fatal consequences. At a higher risk of developing the disease are those with fair skin that burns easily, and those whose family members have a history of skin cancer. Although it can develop at any age, it is extremely rare in childhood.

Besides Melanoma, high sun exposure can induce other forms of skin cancer which may lead to significant disfigurement. Sun exposure also causes premature ageing, wrinkles, blemishes, broken veins and scaly patches. 

Printed educational material with more information will be provided at hospitals, health centres and pharmacies. Skin cancer screenings will be held, by appointment, at the department of dermatology at Boffa hospital on Monday 28 April. For appointments call on 22987105 or 22987153.