Man’s Stage III Melanoma Diagnosis Highlights Importance of Early Detection
London, UK – Jonathan Muggleton, a man from the UK, is sharing his story after successfully undergoing treatment for Stage III melanoma, a potentially deadly form of skin cancer. His case underscores the critical role of early diagnosis in improving treatment outcomes and survival rates, according to experts at Melanoma UK.
Muggleton credits the speed of his diagnosis with enabling access to effective treatment options. “The early diagnosis has been key to why I’m here now,” he said. “There were surgical and drug-based options for me, which is amazing because you read some people get diagnosed and they literally have weeks, and there’s very little anyone can do.” He and his wife, Rebecca Muggleton, are raising awareness of the importance of vigilance regarding skin changes through a GoFundMe campaign.
Melanoma is a cancer that develops when melanocytes - the cells that produce melanin, which gives skin its color – begin to grow out of control. While frequently enough associated with sun exposure, the disease can manifest in various ways, making awareness crucial.
Tracy Paine, Chief Executive of Melanoma UK, emphasized the significance of prompt detection. “If melanoma is caught in its earliest stages,it is highly treatable,and survival rates are excellent. However, once it spreads to other parts of the body, treatment can become more complex and outcomes less favourable. It’s quite simple, the sooner melanoma is found, the better the chances of triumphant treatment.”
Approximately 85 to 90 per cent of melanomas are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sun exposure, including tanning beds. However, rarer forms exist that aren’t directly linked to UV exposure. Ms. Paine explained, “Mucosal melanoma, for example, arises in the mucous membranes such as the nose, mouth, or genital areas, and it may not present with obvious early signs.” This highlights the need to broaden understanding of the disease beyond the typical “skin mole problem.”
Melanoma UK urges everyone to regularly self-examine their skin for any new or changing moles,freckles,or skin lesions. Key warning signs include changes in colour or border, pain, itching, or bleeding.
“If you notice any changes…it’s vital to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early action can make all the difference,” Ms. Paine added.
Understanding Melanoma & Prevention:
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, melanoma skin cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with around 16,700 new cases diagnosed each year. While it can affect people of all skin tones, it is indeed more common in those with fair skin, a history of sunburns, and a family history of the disease.
Preventative measures include:
Sun Protection: Using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm), and wearing protective clothing.
Regular Skin Checks: Performing self-exams monthly and seeing a dermatologist annually for a professional skin examination, especially if you have risk factors.
Awareness of Family History: Knowing your family’s history of skin cancer can help you assess your own risk.
Resources:
Melanoma UK: https://www.melanomauk.org/
Cancer Research UK – Melanoma: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer/melanoma
GoFundMe for Jonathan and rebecca Muggleton: (Link from original article – not provided in text, would need to be sourced)
