Understanding Melanoma and Skin Cancer
Day 2 of What is Melanoma?
Warm up - Many people enjoy spending time in the sun, especially during vacations
or at the beach. What are some common ways you or your family try to protect your
skin from sun damage? Why do you think these methods are important?
Today's to do list?
The Biology of Skin Color
Notes from teacher
Created from:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1JekYerxTbUdxeBf2qYCzCrXJgKQTNCX3WTUABJBNINg
/edit#slide=id.p
Introduction to Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells.
It is one of the most common types of cancer.
What do you think causes skin cells to grow uncontrollably?
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma: Most common and least dangerous.
Squamous cell carcinoma: Can be more aggressive.
Melanoma: Focus on this type due to its severity.
Why is melanoma considered more severe than other types?
Structure of the Skin
Epidermis: Outermost layer containing melanocytes.
Dermis: Middle layer that supports the epidermis.
Subcutaneous tissue: Deepest layer with fat and connective tissue.
How do these layers protect our body?
UV Radiation and Skin Cancer
UV radiation causes DNA damage in skin cells.
Prolonged exposure leads to mutations.
Mutations can cause cells to divide uncontrollably, leading to cancer.
How can we protect ourselves from UV radiation?
Risk Factors for Melanoma
Overexposure to UV radiation (sunlight, tanning beds).
Light skin complexion has less melanin protection.
Family history of skin cancer.
Presence of moles or atypical nevi.
What are some ways to reduce these risks?
Specific Risk Factors for Freja
Light skin increases vulnerability to UV damage.
Frequent UV exposure without protection.
Lack of protective measures like sunscreen.
Why is it important to know your specific risk factors?
Prevention of Skin Cancer
Use sunscreen with high SPF to block UV rays.
Wear protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses.
Avoid the sun during peak radiation times (10 AM to 4 PM).
Regular skin checks for new moles or changes.
How often should you check your skin for changes?
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma
Asymmetry in moles.
Irregular borders.
Multiple colors within a mole.
Diameter larger than 6 mm.
What should you do if you notice these signs?
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Regular skin checks can catch melanoma early.
What are some barriers to early detection?
Classroom Activities and Resources
Use online resources to research more about types and causes of skin cancer.
Illustrate the effects of UV radiation on DNA.
Compare and contrast benign and malignant tumors.
How can these activities help you understand skin cancer better?
Suggested Websites for Research
CDC: Skin Cancer Information
Mayo Clinic: Skin Cancer Symptoms and Causes
Skin Cancer Foundation: Skin Cancer Resources
Why is it important to use reliable sources for research?
Understanding Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be very aggressive.
It often appears as a new spot on the skin or a change in an existing mole.
What makes melanoma different from other skin cancers?
Melanocytes and Melanin
Melanocytes are cells in the epidermis that produce melanin.
Melanin gives skin its color and provides some protection against UV rays.
How does melanin protect the skin from UV damage?
DNA Mutations and Cancer
Mutations in DNA can lead to cancer if the body cannot repair them.
UV radiation is a common cause of these mutations in skin cells.
What are some other factors that can cause DNA mutations?
Protective Measures Against UV Radiation
Sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours are key.
These measures help prevent DNA damage from UV exposure.
How effective do you think these measures are in preventing skin cancer?
Role of Genetics in Skin Cancer
Family history can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Genetic predispositions can affect skin cancer susceptibility.
How can knowing your family history help in prevention?
Monitoring Skin Changes
Regularly check your skin for new moles or changes in existing ones.
Early detection of changes can lead to better treatment outcomes.
What tools or apps can help you monitor your skin?
Impact of Tanning Beds
Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can increase skin cancer risk.
They are not a safe alternative to natural sunlight.
Why do you think tanning beds are still popular despite the risks?
Understanding Benign vs. Malignant Tumors
Benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not spread.
Malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade other tissues.
How can you differentiate between benign and malignant tumors?
Conclusion and Review
Understanding skin cancer and melanoma is crucial for prevention.
Regular skin checks and protective measures can reduce risk.
What are the key takeaways from this presentation?
