Malignant melanoma

Malignant melanoma, also known as melanoma, is the most serious type of skin cancer. It usually develops in cells in the outer layer of the skin. The first visible signs of this may be a change in the normal look or feel of a mole.

People affected by melanoma

Melanoma affects adults of all ages. It is one of the few cancers to affect young adults and is the third most common cancer amongst 15-39 year olds. However your risk increases as you get older.

More women than men develop malignant melanoma. Melanomas in women are most common on the legs and in men they are most common on the back. This is shown in the diagrams on this page.

Early diagnosis

When melanoma is caught early it can be treated successfully. However, if a malignant melanoma is left it can spread to other parts of the body and may be fatal.

If you notice changes in a mole or in previously normal skin, it is important to act right away. Most changes are not caused by cancer, but do need to be checked out.

Read the signs to look out for in our detecting skin cancer section.

Further information

In depth information about malignant melanoma is available on our patient information website CancerHelp UK. The site includes information about risks, screening, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. There is also a section about living with cancer.

Share your story

We would like to hear from people with personal experience of skin cancer. If you would like to share your story then please fill in our online form. Sharing your story can help educate, motivate and inspire others.

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