Melanoma patients reveal dramatic stories for Skin Cancer Awareness Month: ‘I thought I was careful’

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S. — with one in five Americans developing the disease by the age of 70. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, expected to take the lives of more than 8,200 people in the U.S. this year. This May, for Skin Cancer Awareness Month, two melanoma patients are sharing their stories of how they overcame this invasive form of the disease.

One even wrongly assumed that what she was experiencing 'was just a normal part of aging and sun exposure.' Here's what others can learn. What is melanoma? Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the skin’s pigmentation . Most cases — but not all — are caused by exposure to ultraviolet light. Melanoma can affect people of all skin tones and types.

Weiner also recommends that everyone gets yearly skin checks with a board-certified dermatologist. 'I have so many friends — and even my sister, who probably saved my life — who didn't regularly see a dermatologist for a yearly skin check before they learned about my melanoma.' One beach lover's story Steve Murray, 68, of the greater Washington, D.C. area, has worked in construction for several decades.

Since that diagnosis, Murray has had several more bouts of skin cancer. In 2024, he underwent two surgeries for squamous cell carcinoma on his hand and back. Now, Murray visits the dermatologist every three to six months. Also, he always wears a hat, sunscreen and long sleeves whenever possible to protect himself from the sun. Murray’s advice to others is to make sun protection a priority when outdoors.

Lee added, 'Because melanomas can vary in appearance, it is important to see a dermatologist regularly for skin exams if you have a history of significant sun exposure, have many atypical appearing moles, or a family or personal history of melanoma so that you have an experienced set of eyes looking at any spots of concern.' For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

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