Eighteen-year-old son succumbed to a hidden illness that progressively attacked each of his organs, camouflaged by his curly hair
Melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer, has become the fifth most common cancer in the UK, claiming approximately 2,300 lives annually. A tragic case highlights this issue - 18-year-old Rhys Russell, diagnosed with melanoma at the age of 15, passed away on January 17, 2022, due to the cancer spreading to his liver, heart, lungs, and back.
Rhys's parents, Oli Russell and Lauren, first noticed a red patch on his head, a sign of bleeding, which turned out to be a melanoma. It is uncommon for someone as young as Rhys to receive a melanoma diagnosis.
The primary symptom of melanoma is a mole or changes in an existing mole. The key symptoms to look out for are changes to an existing mole, or a new mole on the skin that follows the ABCDE rule: asymmetrical, border, colours, diameter, and enlargement or elevation. Other signs include moles that are swollen, sore, bleeding, itchy, crusty, or changing in size.
Melanoma starts in melanocytes, the cells in the skin that produce melanin. Fair-skinned individuals, those with blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair, and a large number of freckles or moles are more likely to get skin cancer. People who burn easily are more at risk because their cells do not produce as much pigment to protect their skin. Those with albinism are at the highest risk, as their skin produces no pigment at all.
The best way to protect oneself from melanoma is to be sun safe. This includes wearing SPF, hats, sunglasses, and avoiding the sun during the hottest hours, as well as avoiding sunbeds. The number of people being diagnosed with melanoma in the UK is increasing, primarily due to risk factors such as sunburns during childhood and adolescence, genetic predisposition, having many moles, and family history of skin cancer; intense UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds plays a significant role in its development.
Surgery is the main treatment for melanoma, particularly if it is found early. Rhys Russell underwent targeted therapy and radiotherapy to combat his melanoma. However, the outlook for melanoma is better for women than men.
The high number of young patients diagnosed with melanoma is a concern. The ABCDE rule is a simple method for identifying potential melanoma symptoms, and it is crucial to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical advice if any concerns arise.
In memory of Rhys Russell, let us all remember the importance of sun safety and regular skin checks. Early detection and prevention can make a significant difference in the fight against melanoma.
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