“Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, but if detected in time, it has a survival rate of over 90%. For this reason, it is essential to attend regular medical check-ups in order to identify any anomaly and so that the patient can receive an early diagnosis,” refers Dr. Mauricio León Rivera, director of the League Against Cancer, president of the Peruvian Society of Surgical Oncology and oncological surgeon at our clinic.

What are the risk factors for Melanoma?

• Ultraviolet (UV) exposure. The main cause of melanoma is excessive exposure to the sun. UV rays damage the DNA of skin cells, which can cause mutations that can lead to cancer.
• Fair or freckled skin. People with fair skin, freckles, blue or green eyes have a higher risk of developing melanoma. This is because their skin produces less melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from sun damage.
• Presence of atypical moles. Atypical moles are those that have an irregular shape, color or size. These moles have a higher risk of developing into melanoma compared to normal moles.
• Family history of melanoma. If you have close relatives who have had melanoma, your risk of melanoma increases.
• People with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of developing melanoma.

Our specialist recommends the following preventive measures:

Limit exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade whenever possible.

• Limit your exposure to the sun, especially between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4 p.m. Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade whenever possible.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, applying it to dry skin 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours or more frequently if you sweat or are in the water.
• Check your skin for new moles or changes in existing moles, paying attention to their size, shape, color and symmetry. If you detect any abnormalities, consult a dermatologist immediately.

Dr. Mauricio León Rivera
Director of the League Against Cancer, president of the Peruvian Society of Surgical Oncology and oncological surgeon at Clínica Ricardo Palma