Even if you currently do not have skin cancer, it is still important to know the stages of melanoma. With reports that the Earth's ozone layer is thinning and increased radiation, skin cancer is becoming more and more prevalent. If you know what to expect, you can be on the lookout for tell-tale marks; you will be that much more prepared if you are diagnosed with the condition and learn of where you fall within the stages of melanoma. The earlier a person starts cancer treatment, the better their chances of beating melanoma and other skin cancers.
The following stages of melanoma are defined by the size of the tumor and how far the cancer has spread. The stage of a tumor is generally defined after a doctor has examined the infected area and performed a biopsy.
Stage 0 is the least damaging or severe stage of skin cancer. This stage means that the abnormal cells are only on the outer layer of skin. This is good, as it means the cells have not spread to deeper tissue.
Stage I means that the abnormal cells are present both on the outer layer of skin and in the inner layer of skin called the dermis. This type of skin cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes and is less than 1.5 millimeters thick.
tage II's tumor is larger than 1.5 millimeters thick and has spread to the inner and lower pieces of the dermis skin layer. However, this tumor has not yet spread to the lymph nodes.
Stage III means that the cancer has spread deep into the skin and is near the lymph nodes.
Stage IV is when the cancer has spread to the body's organs and to the lymph nodes. What this means is that the skin cancer has spread far from the point of origin. Stopping the cancer from spreading at this point is incredibly difficult.
 | Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer there is, but it is also one of the most treatable. There are several things that contribute to the development of skin cancer; by learning how to prevent skin cancer throughout your lifetime, you can significantly reduce your risk of getting the disease. |
 | Learn to recognize early signs of skin cancer so you can get it treated early. With more than 1 million new cases each year, skin cancer is the leading form of cancer in the United States. |
Learning how to prevent skin cancer requires accepting the responsibility of taking care of your skin and your health every single day. Whether the sun is shining or hiding behind clouds, paying attention to skin health is crucial. |
What does skin cancer look like? No one wants to spot a potential sign of skin cancer on her body, but it is a good idea to be prepared, just in case. If you see any of these potential skin cancer red flags, it's time to see a doctor. |
Where does skin cancer occur? Skin cancer can pop up anywhere on the skin of your body. Learn how to inspect your face, back, arms and other parts of your body and prevent skin cancer from developing without detection. |
