MEN'S HEALTH

Watch for Signs of Melanoma Before It’s Too Late

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Person checking a suspicious mole on their shoulder in the mirror


Teddi Mellencamp noticed a strange mole. Months later, she was fighting stage 4 melanoma.

Skin cancer is silent. You won’t feel it. But it can kill you.

Why You Should Care

  • Over 104,000 cases of invasive melanoma expected in the U.S. this year

  • Survival drops to 35% if diagnosed late

  • Young adults, especially women under 40, are at rising risk

  • Tanning beds increase melanoma risk by up to 75%

→ Skin Cancer Foundation

Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma

Comparison between a normal mole and a melanoma using ABCDE criteria


Letter Meaning Sign
A Asymmetry One half doesn’t match the other
B Border Irregular, notched, blurred
C Color Uneven or unusual shades
D Diameter Bigger than 6mm (pencil eraser)
E Evolving It changes over time

→ Visual guide

Teddi’s Story Is a Warning

Teddi Mellencamp showing scars after melanoma treatment


Teddi Mellencamp (Real Housewives) had over 17 melanomas removed. She now has stage 4.
→ Full story on People

Melanoma Can Take Many Forms

Add this to your knowledge:

  • Superficial Spreading – most common

  • Nodular – fast-growing, dangerous

  • Acral Lentiginous – affects dark skin, shows on palms, soles, under nails

How to Check Your Skin at Home

Diagram showing areas of the body to check for skin cancer signs


  1. Use a full-length mirror

  2. Add a handheld mirror for back and scalp

  3. Check nails, soles, behind ears, and genitals

  4. Look monthly for new, changing, or odd spots

  5. Use photo apps for tracking (e.g. Miiskin, SkinVision)
    → Self-check guide

Get Smart About the UV Index

Mobile app displaying high UV Index warning for the day


Before you leave home:

  • Check the UV index using EPA tools or weather apps

  • UV above 3? Use sunscreen and avoid long exposure
    → EPA UV Tool

High-Tech Help: AI Skin Apps

Person using smartphone AI app to scan a mole on the arm


Apps like SkinVision and Miiskin scan and monitor moles.
They don’t replace doctors—but help spot issues early.
→ JAMA Review

Prevention You Can Control

Sun protection essentials including SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses


  • Daily sunscreen, SPF 30+

  • No tanning beds. Ever

  • Wear long sleeves, sunglasses, hats

  • Avoid peak sun (10 AM–4 PM)

  • Book annual dermatologist exams
    → Find a derm near you

Melanoma Hits Everyone—But Not Equally

Melanoma incidence and mortality chart by race in the United States


  • Black patients often diagnosed late

  • Mortality higher in people of color despite lower incidence
    → CDC disparity data

Mental Health Matters Too

A melanoma diagnosis can trigger anxiety, depression, and body image issues.
You need emotional support, not just treatment.
→ Study - NCBI

Cutting-Edge Treatments Saving Lives

Patient receiving immunotherapy treatment for stage 4 melanoma


New FDA-approved drugs include:

Ask Yourself These 5 Risk Questions

  • Do you burn easily or have light skin?

  • Have you used tanning beds?

  • Do you have 50+ moles?

  • Do you have a family history?

  • Have you had sunburns in childhood?

If yes to any, your risk is higher.

Act Now

  • Scan your skin today

  • Book a checkup

  • Share this with someone who tans

  • Don’t wait until it spreads

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