Dermatologist warns of three skin cancer myths everyone should know
An American board certified dermatologist has shared three melanoma misconceptions she thinks everyone should be aware of. Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body
A dermatologist has shared three common myths about melanoma, highlighting the importance of awareness during May, which is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. This period emphasises the significance of early detection, prevention, and treatment of skin cancers.
Melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer that can metastasise to other body parts, is primarily caused by ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds, according to NHS guidelines. Lindsey Zubritsky is an American board-certified dermatologist with expertise in various dermatological fields.
Lindsey, known on social media as Dermguru, took to TikTok to dispel some widespread misunderstandings about melanoma. In her video, she said: "I need you to stop believing this. I'm a board certified dermatologist, I see patients all of the time.
"These are some serious misconceptions that I see in clinic that you need to know about so you're not believing this too, and this is especially important because it deals with melanoma and other skin cancers."
Only raised moles are bad
One myth she tackles is the belief that only raised moles are a cause for concern. Zubritsky points out that while some raised moles may indeed be problematic, she has encountered numerous flat and smooth moles that were not prominent on the surface yet turned out to be "very dangerous, very deep melanomas."
The NHS highlights that typical moles are generally circular and neatly edged, whereas melanomas can present with an irregular shape and multiple colours, reports Surrey Live.
If a mole has been there forever, it's fine
Dr. Zubritsky said: "The second thing is people always tell me that they've had this mole all their life therefore it can't possibly be bad."
She recounted the frequency of these discussions, saying, "I can't tell you how many melanomas that I've diagnosed that someone has told me they've had that mole forever and it hasn't been changing and therefore it can't possibly be bad."
She observed that this opinion is a regular point of discussion with her patients, as there's a widespread belief a longstanding mole isn't problematic.
The NHS advises monitoring moles for changes in size, shape or colour, which could suggest melanoma, and to be vigilant for any swelling, bleeding, discomfort or flaking.
Skin cancer only affects sun-exposed areas
Dr. Zubritsky dispelled another myth, noting that skin cancer can develop regardless of whether the skin has been sun-exposed. She said that she conducts comprehensive skin examinations despite patients asking: "Why are you looking there? I don't get sun there."
She emphasised the reality that melanomas and other types of skin cancers can indeed occur anywhere on the body. She said: "I've seen it on the eye, I've seen it in the buttocks, I've seen it in the genitals, I've seen it on the feet.
"While sun and UV light is one of the most common causes for skin cancer, there are other causes as well therefore you can get skin cancer almost anywhere you have skin."
The NHS has indicated that new moles or alterations to existing ones can be melanoma warning signs, with this type of cancer often occurring in body areas exposed regularly to the sun.
Dr Zubritsky's observations align with the findings of the health service, which confirms that rarer melanoma forms can indeed affect less common areas such as the eyes, soles, palms or genitals.
For those worried about any moles, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
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