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Guide to Melanoma

Although the ABCDE guide is a good guide to use, no two melanoma look the same. Melanoma may ‘slip through the net.’ and many may not follow the ABCDE rules. However, if you notice change (E for Evolution) this should be taken seriously and checked by your GP.

Unfortunately GP’s can not be experts in every aspects of practice and are often hoodwinked by a seemingly innocent looking lesion. If you are worried about something that is changing on your skin that does not follow the ABCDE rule, we recommend you request a second opinion.

ABCDE Model

"A" is for Asymmetry

If you put a line down the middle of the mole and the two sides are not symmetrical, this may be a sign.

Asymmetry normal

Normal

Asymmetry cancerous

Cancerous

"B" is for Border

The edges of a melanoma tend to be uneven, crusty or notched.

Boarder normal

Normal

Boarder cancerous

Cancerous

"C" is for Colour

Healthy moles are normally uniform in colour. More than one colour may be a sign that the lesion is suspicious.

Colour normal

Normal

Colour cancerous

Cancerous

"D" is for Diameter

Melanomas are usually larger in diameter than a pencil eraser (6mm), although they can be smaller.

Diameter normal

Normal

Diameter cancerous

Cancerous

"E" is for Evolution

Evolution is the most consistent of the ABCDE model. Any changes to the lesion whether it be in appearance, size or sensation should be checked by a health professional

Evolving normal

Normal

Evolving cancerous

Cancerous

Melanoma is often misunderstood...

Melanoma’s can be symmetrical, tiny and have one consistent colour. Nodular Melanomas, which are very aggressive, can also be round and have very clear defined borders.

What is normally always the case with Melanoma is the E for Evolution. Melanomas will almost always change. It may change in shape, size, colour and sensation and this is something that definitely should not be ignored.

Although people with fair skin and freckles are most at risk, anyone can get Melanoma. In fact, people with darker skin are more likely to get a very aggressive type of Melanoma called Acral Lentiginous that effect the hairless parts of the body like the soles of your feet, palms of hands and nail beds.

Melanoma is presently the 5th most common Cancer in the UK

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Empowering Your Loved Ones: ​
6 Ways to Provide Support During a Diagnosis

Both the individual who has been diagnosed and those they love may find it stressful and upsetting to get a melanoma diagnosis. It’s common to experience a sense of powerlessness and to be unsure of the best way to offer assistance. However, there are several practical and emotional strategies you can use to assist through this challenging time. Here are six expanded tips, carefully put together by Rosie Buckley to support your loved ones.

1. Research & Educate

Gaining knowledge about skin cancer is the first step in being able to help someone who has received a diagnosis. Knowledge is a great tool, especially when trying to understand a health issue. Start by researching the type of skin cancer, it’s possible stages, available therapies, and potential side effects. You will then be able to take part in conversations that comfort others and reduce their concerns as well as your own by using this information.

2. Listen with Purpose

Simply listening is one of the most effective methods to help someone navigate a cancer diagnosis. Beyond just hearing what is being said, listening is comprehending and sharing the feelings that are being expressed via those words. Allow them to talk about their worries, thoughts, and fears without interfering, passing judgement, or offering unknown advice. This validation can provide immense emotional relief and strengthen your bond during this difficult time.

3. Offer Practical Assistance

Offering practical assistance can be an invaluable source of support. The rigours of treatment often lead to fatigue and upset, making routine tasks challenging. You can alleviate their stress by driving them to medical appointments, help them manage their pain, or recall vital information shared by the healthcare team. Always communicate openly about what kind of help they need and respect their wishes if there are certain tasks they prefer to handle independently.

4. Encourage Healthy Lifestyle Choices

A healthy lifestyle can contribute significantly to recovery and overall wellbeing. Encourage them to maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Suggest light physical activity, such as walking or yoga, tailored to their energy levels and capabilities. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant lifestyle changes.

5. Promote a Positive Setting

It’s important to remember the power of optimism, especially when receiving treatment. Make an effort to foster a kind, positive, and even humorous environment. This can be extremely beneficial in overcoming the mental and emotional difficulties that come with a diagnosis.

6. Promote Engagement in Support Groups

People with comparable diseases might find solace and helpful guidance from support groups. These organisations provide an outlet for individuals to interact with those going through comparable situations, exchange personal tales, and gain insight from those who are a little farther down the road.

Likewise, they offer a sense of belonging and comprehension that may be immensely reassuring. Encourage those you love to take part in offline or online support groups.

In conclusion, it takes time, compassion, and proactive engagement to help a loved one through a diagnosis. You may be a huge help at this trying time by equipping yourself with knowledge, actively listening, offering helpful assistance, encouraging healthy choices, creating a happy environment, and suggesting support groups. Remember that every person’s journey is unique, so you should adjust your strategy to fit your loved one’s particular requirements and preferences.

Information About Melanoma

Change needs checking

Change needs checking. Nodulars are very aggressive, grow beneath the surface as well as above. Time is of the essence, as once in the blood and or lymphatic system can travel anywhere on or IN your body.

If you see something changing-growing, shrinking, changing colour, sensation, it’s worth getting it checked.

#promoteearlydetection 
#vigilanceisthekey
#changeneedschecking
#howtosavealife

How to Help Elderly Relatives Navigate a Skin Cancer Diagnosis

Written by Rosie Buckley

A skin cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming at any age, but for elderly individuals, it often brings a unique set of challenges. As a family member or caregiver, your support can make a big difference, but this can sometimes be tricky to navigate.

Understand the Diagnosis

If you’re not sure where to start with providing help, understanding their diagnosis will give you a clearer idea of how you can best support them. A good place to begin is by attending appointments with them (if they’re okay with this) and asking their doctor questions. You can also ask them for helpful resources to read up on. Doing this will also help your elderly relative to understand their diagnosis better, especailly if they have any questions or are confused about anything. 

Support Any Decision

It’s essential to respect their boundaries, but also be there for them when necessary. Everyone’s needs are different, so ask them what they need as an individual. For example, if they’d like a little bit of time alone, make sure you give it to them. 

Remember, they’re in charge of their treatment choices as well; don’t push them to make decisions they don’t want to go through with. It’s okay to give your input and make suggestions, but don’t forget that the final choice is up to them. 

Be Present and Listen

Validating their feelings can help them feel heard. Feeling anxious and overwhelmed are normal emotions to experience when getting a skin cancer diagnosis. Be there to listen without interruption, and refrain from offering solutions if this isn’t what they want to hear. Sometimes people simply just need to express how they feel; it can lift a weight off their shoulders and allow them to feel less alone. Ask them if they would like you to check in with them regularly through text messages, phone calls, and visits. Remember that everyone’s needs are different, and some people may prefer to avoid talking about their diagnosis.

Offer Practical Support

Emotional support can go a long way, but practical help can also come into play when looking out for someone. Of course, start by asking them what they need so you can respect their boundaries, but here are some things which might be useful. 

  • Help manage Appointments: There are several ways to do this, such as creating a shared calendar of scheduled appointments. By doing this, you can also set reminders to prevent your loved one from forgetting about them. They may also want you to attend appointments with them and offer transportation. Doing this can lower their stress levels and help them feel supported. 
  • Assist with Errands: This may include doing the food shop together, helping with chores around the house, or offering to pick up prescriptions for them. Ask what they’d find useful! 

Remember To Look Out For Yourself

Caring for an elderly relative is one of the most compassionate things someone can do. However, it can come with challenges, and some people can begin to disregard their own needs, especially full-time carers. It’s important to practice self-care and mindfulness and continue to do things you enjoy. For example, using the help of carers for your elderly loved one can help relieve pressure from you. You could also join a support group for carers or have a meaningful conversation with someone you trust to express your feelings. 

Seeking Other Means of Support

By lending a listening ear and offering practical support, you’re being a big help and giving them a shoulder to lean on. However, it’s important they can find support in other ways if they need to. 

  • Join Support Groups: Whether it’s in-person or online, a support group can allow your relative to connect with people going through something similar. This can help them feel less alone, and they may learn something from someone. 
  • Encourage Self-Care: It’s important that your elderly relative looks after their mental health and prioritises themselves. A great way to do this is through self-care, which can include meditation, doing hobbies they enjoy, and getting enough sleep. If they want to incorporate new ways of self-care into their day, you could help them write out a routine to help them get into good habits. 
  • Counselling or Getting Support From a Charity: At Melanoma-me, we support patients and their family members affected by skin cancer and melanoma. We offer a range of counselling and practical support to help patients with a number of factors. This includes coming to terms with a cancer diagnosis, employment issues, loss of a loved one and more. 

Final Thoughts

Hopefully this article has given you some ideas on how you can offer your meaningful support.
Remember to ask them what they need and never assume. With your help, navigating their diagnosis can become easier.