A very serious cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth
of pigment-producing cells, although melanoma can be non-
pigmented. Melanoma can suddenly appear without warning within
or near a mole or dark spot. It is found most frequently on
women's legs and the upper backs of both women and men; however,
it can appear anywhere on the body. Melanoma is believed to be
event-driven—one or more sunburns during childhood or
adolescence that sets the stage for developing melanoma at a
later date. It is more common in light-skinned people. Past
sunburns, sun exposure during youth and even heredity are
factors in developing melanoma. Dark-skinned people also can
develop it, especially on the hands and feet, under the nails
and in the mouth. Treating melanoma in its early stage before it
has metastasized, or invaded the deeper layer of skin, is
usually successful. But once it grows and sinks into the skin,
the chances of it spreading and causing death are greatly
increased.