Early Detection

Can Melanoma Be Found Early?

Melanoma is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in the United States and the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma can spread quickly to other organs, and it causes the vast majority of skin cancer deaths in the United States. Luckily, melanoma can often be detected in its early and most treatable stages.

The five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is “thin”—defined as less than one millimeter in thickness—and has not spread to lymph nodes or other distant sites is 99 percent.[1] Once melanoma has spread, the survival rate drops significantly, especially if the melanoma has reached distant parts of the body. That’s why taking steps to prevent melanoma and identify it early are critical.