It is estimated that nearly 60,000 people will learn they have melanoma this year. It is not known how of many of these cases involve the foot. More than 8,000 patients will die. However, if melanoma is detected during early stages, 92 percent of patients are alive after 5 years.
Melanoma can strike all age groups, even the young. Whites are ten times more likely to develop melanoma than are blacks , but studies suggest that more than half of the reported cases for blacks involve the foot.
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends routine self exams to focus on the most common areas of the foot for melanoma to appear: the soles, between the toes, and around or under toenails. Melanoma can develop anywhere even in areas of little sun exposure. If a mole or freckle starts to exhibit changes over the course of a month and becomes asymmetrical or changes its border, color, diameter, or elevation, then consult a doctor immediately. It could save your life..
To read the full length article and view the video visit http://www.empowereddoctor.com/story_1233.html
and to find medical specialists in your area check out http://empowereddoctor.com/directory.html
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_216560_28.html
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_216560_28.html

