Photo of malignant melanoma- notice the irregular border, larger size and irregular color. Photo courtesy of From Your Doctor Service powered by Vivicare.

Although the month of May is officially Skin Cancer Awareness month, the health of your skin deserves attention year-round; especially when you live somewhere like sunny San Diego.  While sunscreen and protective clothing is essential to help protect your skin from skin cancer, it’s reassuring to know that advances are being made in the way skin cancer, specifically malignant melanoma, is being treated.

A report in the Chicago-Sun Times(6/5, Thomas) explained that the incidence of melanoma has increased in the U.S. over the last 30 years.  But a new drug, called Ipilimumab, is showing promise as a treatment for melanoma.  USA Today(6/7, Szabo) describes the new drug as an immune stimulator.  According to the AP(6/7, Marchione), ipilimumab “works by helping the immune system fight tumors.”  The help this drug has offered is to give patients with late stage melanoma a longer life.  Bloomberg News(6/5, Pattypiece) reports that “ipilimumab kept about a quarter of patients battling late-stage melanoma alive for two years- about twice the proportion with current therapies.”

When discussing skin cancer, especially melanoma, we cannot stress the importance of regular skin checks with a dermatologist.  What can you do in between check ups with your doctor?  Know your skin- about every 3 months take a look at you body in the mirror and notice any changes in size, shape, and/or color.  If you do notice any changes, don’t wait the full year until your next skin exam- make an appointment to see your doctor.  Early detection is a key factor in keeping you healthy!