Early detection of melanoma

When melanoma is detected and treated early, the chances of successful treatment are better. Recognizing symptoms and getting regular checkups are the best ways to detect melanoma early. The sooner symptoms are reported, the sooner a doctor can diagnose and treat the cancer.

Learning what to look for and checking the skin regularly can help find most skin cancers early enough to be successfully treated.

High-risk individuals

People who are at higher than average risk of developing melanoma may need to be examined more often than people with average risk. Examples of what puts a person at higher than average risk include:

• a personal history of skin cancer
• a strong family history of melanoma (one or more first-degree relatives with the disease)
• familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome (FAMMM)
• CDKN2A gene mutation
• receiving immunosuppressive therapy after an organ transplant

People who are at higher than average risk should talk to their doctor about a personal plan for testing. A personal plan of testing may include:

• frequent skin examination by health professional