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Woman dies of cancer at 23 despite 80% survival chance; her brothers are now blaming mom's anti-medicine theories for it
Woman dies of cancer at 23 despite 80% survival chance; her brothers are now blaming mom's anti-medicine theories for it

Hindustan Times

time25-06-2025

  • Health
  • Hindustan Times

Woman dies of cancer at 23 despite 80% survival chance; her brothers are now blaming mom's anti-medicine theories for it

Kate Shemirani's daughter, Paloma, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer. Despite doctors informing her that she had an 80 percent chance of survival with chemotherapy, Paloma refused treatment and instead opted for alternative therapies, reportedly under her mother's influence. She died in July 2024 at the age of 23. Also read | World Cancer Day 2025: Cancer spreads from person to person? Here are 4 most common myths and facts about the disease Kate Shemirani's daughter Paloma was diagnosed with cancer. Paloma's brothers blame their mother's anti-medicine conspiracy theories for her death. (Pic courtesy: In a June 23 interview with BBC Panorama, Paloma's brothers, Gabriel and Sebastian Shemirani, blamed their mother Kate's anti-medicine conspiracy theories for her death. They said that Kate's influence led Paloma to reject chemotherapy and medical treatment. Kate Shemirani is a former nurse whose registration was cancelled reportedly due to promoting misinformation about Covid-19. Kate styles herself as 'the Natural Nurse' on social media and has 'been known to spread conspiracy theories and once-fringe anti-medicine views to millions' – which her sons believe contributed to Paloma's decision to refuse cancer treatment. Paloma's elder brother Sebastian said: 'My sister has passed away as a direct consequence of my mum's actions and beliefs and I don't want anyone else to go through the same pain or loss that I have.' 'I wasn't able to stop my sister from dying' The brothers alleged that their mother texted Paloma's boyfriend, Ander, saying, "TELL PALOMA NOT TO SIGN [OR] VERBALLY CONSENT TO CHEMO OR ANY TREATMENT". The brothers further said they hope they can help prevent other deaths like Paloma's, and they believe social media companies should take stronger action against medical misinformation. 'I wasn't able to stop my sister from dying. But it would mean the world to me if I could make it that she wasn't just another in a long line of people that die in this way,' Gabriel said. According to her sons, Kate's anti-medicine views were accelerated in 2012, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Even though she had the tumour removed through surgery, she credited alternative therapies for her recovery and reportedly shared online how she used a programme including juices and coffee enemas to become 'cancer-free'. Kate Shemirani's response to son's claims Kate has not directly responded to the allegations made against her by her sons in connection with Paloma's death, but has publicly blamed the NHS (National Health Service) for her daughter's death. She and her ex-husband, Faramarz Shemirani, reportedly said they have evidence that Paloma died due to medical interventions without a confirmed diagnosis or lawful consent. However, the BBC reported it had seen no evidence to support these claims. Paloma's death highlights that it's essential to rely on credible sources and consult with healthcare professionals for accurate information about cancer. To combat cancer, it is crucial to stop believing common myths. Click here to learn about the nine most prevalent misconceptions about the disease. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

Why this 12-year-old collapsed every time he took a hot bath, doctor reveals the answer
Why this 12-year-old collapsed every time he took a hot bath, doctor reveals the answer

Time of India

time10-06-2025

  • Health
  • Time of India

Why this 12-year-old collapsed every time he took a hot bath, doctor reveals the answer

In a part of rural Andhra Pradesh, 12-year-old Sai Teja 's mornings started like many others: foggy air, piping hot water, and the comfort of a bath that shook off the winter chill. But hidden in this routine was a danger no one saw coming. Every time hot water touched his head, Sai would feel dizzy, his vision would blur, and before anyone could act, he'd collapse. What began as occasional fainting turned into episodes of full-body stiffness, unconsciousness, and bruises from sudden falls. His parents, alarmed and confused, watched their otherwise healthy, intelligent son spiral into a mystery they couldn't solve. Why did no one suspect something serious? At first, there were all the common guesses. Was it the sudden heat? A drop in blood pressure? Winter dehydration? Or just a phase? Doctors in nearby clinics chalked it up to 'too hot water' or 'weakness,' suggesting simple tweaks like cooler baths or earlier meals. But the truth was far more complicated—and dangerously overlooked. It took several falls, a near head injury, and months of unanswered questions before Sai's parents sought a specialist's opinion in Hyderabad. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo At the heart of the diagnosis was Dr Sudhir Kumar, a senior neurologist who didn't dismiss the pattern. After careful observation, Sai underwent an EEG test, which finally gave a name to the fear: Hot Water Epilepsy (HWE). Unlike regular epilepsy, which can strike without warning, HWE is a reflex epilepsy. That means it gets triggered only by a specific action, in this case, hot water being poured over the head. Strikingly, it's more common than many realise in certain parts of South India, particularly Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Hot water epilepsy Hot Water Epilepsy might sound unusual, but in regions where bathing habits include pouring hot water over the head, especially during winter, cases surface quietly and often go undiagnosed. The exact cause isn't fully known, but neurologists believe the sudden temperature change on the scalp can overstimulate sensitive neurons in the brain, especially in genetically predisposed individuals. The EEG often shows abnormal spikes in brain activity immediately after exposure. What's important to know is this: HWE is real, diagnosable, and treatable. It's not a psychological issue or a response to fear—it's a neurological reaction. World Cancer Day: 10-year-old boy becomes 'doctor for a day' at Gujarat Cancer Research Institute Once Sai was diagnosed, everything changed. He was prescribed mild anti-seizure medication, but what helped more were the lifestyle adjustments. His family was advised to: Use lukewarm water for bathing Avoid pouring water directly over the head Say no to steam rooms or saunas That was it. No complex treatments. No hospital stays. Just simple steps—rooted in awareness. And it worked One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change

I hid from the world when cancer changed my body until dancing transformed my life
I hid from the world when cancer changed my body until dancing transformed my life

Wales Online

time08-06-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Wales Online

I hid from the world when cancer changed my body until dancing transformed my life

I hid from the world when cancer changed my body until dancing transformed my life Despite radiotherapy, appointments, exhaustion and pain, Rachael Anderson never missed a training session Rachael Anderson could no longer recognise herself, after her devastating breast cancer diagnosis in 2021 (Image: Rachael Anderson ) After being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 37, Rachael Anderson withdrew from the world—overwhelmed by the changes to her body and mind. Looking in the mirror became difficult, and the idea of facing others felt impossible. She certainly never imagined herself as a dancer. Yet four years after her initial diagnosis, sandwiched between her dance instructor Louise Evans and fellow dancer Emma Llewellyn, Rachael has found the courage not only to dance, but to share her story. ‌ The mum-of-two's path with Creazione Dance Company in Caerphilly didn't begin with choreography or costumes. It started as a search for healing—physically and emotionally. ‌ After completing her treatment and ringing the bell to mark the end of her breast cancer treatment on World Cancer Day 2022—a year after her diagnosis—Rachael shared her experience on Facebook. That post would change everything. Among the responses was a message from Louise, whom Rachael knew from previous fitness classes. Louise had a proposal. "She invited me back to her classes," Rachael recalls. "At first, I wasn't sure I could do it. Article continues below "T o be honest, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I hid from the world, I was a bit embarrassed. And I know I shouldn't be, but it's one of those things. Your body changes, your mindset changes, everything does." Chemotherapy had taken Rachael's hair. Steroids had changed her body. "I didn't recognise myself in the mirror," she says. "I didn't see the old Rachael anymore." Rachael shared that she has seen "15 versions" of herself over the last few years (Image: Rachael Anderson ) ‌ Despite her hesitation, Louise persisted. She told Rachael about a charity event that Creazione Dance Company was organising in collaboration with Welsh Ice for breast cancer. Louise was bringing together a group of "non-dancers" to perform Latin dance in support of the cause. It was a leap into the unknown—especially as Rachael didn't know anyone else in the group. But she showed up. ‌ "I don't know how I walked through those doors, I didn't know anyone at the time, but I thought, 'I need to do this,'" she explains. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here There she met Emma Llewellyn and seven other women - all of whom were there for their own personal reasons. "I joined Creazione after I had my own health problems," Emma shared candidly. ‌ "I had a mini-stroke, so decided to start at the gym and take care of myself a little bit more. When I lost my dad to lung cancer, not long after, I needed something more. Creazione was recommended to me, so I decided to have a look. That's when I met Louise." Meeting Louise, for Emma, was like meeting someone who truly saw her. "She just listened. I wasn't just another number to get through the door. When she mentioned putting together a group of non-dancers, I wanted in. My daughter dances formation and I'd always admired that. I never thought I could do it myself." Rachael said steroids and chemotherapy changed her hair and body (Image: Rachael Anderson ) ‌ And then, she met Rachael. "I probably talked her ear off the first day," Emma laughs. "She hasn't gotten rid of me! Honestly, when I learnt about her story, I just found it so incredibly inspiring. "When my dad was alive, he was a really positive person right to the very end. He went ziplining, he tried to tick off everything on his bucket list and Rachael reminded me of that. Of not letting this illness define them." ‌ As rehearsals went on, the group soon felt less like a class and more like a family. But just as the bond between them deepened, something changed. In July, just five months after getting the all-clear for breast cancer, Rachael began suffering from intense, frequent headaches. "There wasn't a lot of time between me ringing the bell and my secondary diagnosis," Rachael says. "At first I thought it could have been something to do with my job. I am a civil servant so work in an office in front of a computer most days. I just thought that it could've been something to do with that." ‌ However, as the migraines grew consistent and increasingly more painful, Rachael knew that something was wrong. "I do live with pain, but I have learnt mask it very well. I just take paracetamol because I can't handle very strong painkillers. But there were training sessions leading up to the fundraiser where I would be balling my eyes out because the headaches were that painful. "It was daily and it was to the point where I'd have a headache and have to stop whatever I was doing, go into a dark room and just lie there. ‌ "My licence was even taken off me and I wasn't allowed to drive. No amount of paracetamol would stop it. I even tried co-codamol, and like I said, I usually don't take strong painkillers. Nothing touched it. Nothing I did stopped the pain at all. "Not many people took me seriously. I remember asking my partner once, 'Would you just massage my head?' And he was like, 'For a headache?' I bring that up a lot now, he feels very guilty." Rachael and her fellow dancers at Creazione raised money for Breast Cancer - but this was just the beginning (Image: Emma Llewellyn ) ‌ Eventually, Rachael went to the opticians - the first port of call when one experience migraines - however, Rachael says that she knew it had nothing to do with her eyes. "As soon as I went to the opticians and they said, 'You going to have to go to the eye hospital' I was like, 'This is nothing to do with my eyes. I know it's not.' That's when I decided to go to A&E. "The doctor couldn't believe I came in 'just for a headache,'" she says. "But I stood my ground. I knew something was wrong. I asked for scans." The results were devastating. ‌ "He came back looking ashamed. He wouldn't meet my eyes. He just looked down and said: 'I'm really sorry. You have a tumour in your brain. It looks like the cancer has spread. It's now secondary.'" What followed was a whirlwind: an urgent mask fitting, and then radiotherapy to her head. All the while, Rachael kept dancing. "In spite of everything—appointments, exhaustion, pain—she never missed a single training session," Emma says. "Not one," Louise confirms. ‌ "Honestly, I wouldn't have made it through without Louise, Creazione and of course all the girls," Rachael says emotionally. "They became my family, and that's what kept me going. My two children are my priority, but this team, this community, helped me fight through the darkest days. At that point in her journey, Rachael reflected on how much she had changed. "I think I've been about 15 different versions of myself," she said. "I've gone from being a married mum, to going through divorce, battling breast cancer, finding a new partner, starting to dance, then facing secondary cancer… with each challenge, I've had to shift who I am and how I see the world. ‌ "I had met my partner just about a year before my diagnosis, and he stood by me through everything. I told him he could walk away—I even insisted, under duress—but he refused to leave. He stayed. "At the end of the day, I'm not the same person I was. I still struggle with things like my weight. I look in the mirror and I don't see the Rachael I saw 10 years ago. But we all change. And slowly, I'm learning to like the new Rachael." The charity event that Rachael joined marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one where dance and community would become the foundations of her strength. Rachael explained: "After we did that fundraiser, we had a bit of a gap but we all found ourselves missing each other. We'd built something special." ‌ Encouraged by Louise, the team decided to reunite, and transitioned from charity events to competitive dance, starting at the famous Blackpool Tower. "The step from charity to competition was massive," says Louise. "Competing at the prestigious Blackpool Tower Ballroom was a huge step up—it was a huge change and a whole new level for us. But I believed in the girls. I knew they could do it. So we got our heads together and made it happen. "We were training two, sometimes three times a week. I've worked with other dance teams before, I have been a dance instructor for 35 years, but none have trained as hard or as consistently as our senior team. They really wanted it. And I think that drive came from the fact that we all shared one vision, one goal. ‌ "A lot of that heart came from what Rachael has gone through—and continues to go through. But it wasn't just her. It was Emma's story, too. And others joined us for so many reasons: mental health struggles, loneliness, the need for connection, for escapism, for friendship. Everyone brought something personal, and that's what made this team so special." In 2024, it was time for the World Championships in Blackpool. " It's very expensive to go. We're talking thousands of pounds, dresses are thousands of pounds. We fundraised the travel costs, made the dresses ourselves on a short budget… nothing like this is ever cheap," Louise recalls. However, Rachael faced another devastating challenge in the lead-up to the competition. The possibility that her cancer had spread from her head to her spine became a very real and frightening prospect. ‌ "I was in a lot of pain," Rachael shared. "The chemo seemed to have ruined my bones, and I had constant pain in my hips. Then they found something on my spine." Just days before the team was set to travel to Blackpool, Rachael's doctors had to give her the medical approval to go—and to dance. Against all odds, she did both. Emma marvels, "I don't know how she gets on the floor sometimes, but she does." The team's hard work and determination paid off when they placed fourth at the World Championships—a huge achievement for everyone involved. ‌ Rachael (left) dancing with her partner Kerry in Blackpool Tower (Image: Emma Llewellyn ) Thankfully, in the spring of 2025, Rachael received some long-awaited good news. "We found out it wasn't cancer," she explained. "But my spine is wearing away from all the treatments. When I had my breast cancer treatments, I was also part of a trial drug programme. You never know how those drugs will affect you—and in my case, they think the trial drugs weakened my bones. So, while it wasn't cancer, it's still taken a toll." "Between placing fourth and Rachael's news, it was a massive confidence boost," Louise said. Spurred on by their progress, the team set their sights on the Welsh Alliance Championships in May 2025 — a competition they went on to win, marking a major milestone in their journey. ‌ Creizione Dance's Latin Senior team placed fourth at their first competitive event at Blackpool Tower (Image: Emma Llewellyn ) Since then, the team has only grown in strength, expanding into multiple formation teams. "We started with just one senior formation team of eight," Louise says. "Now, we have 25 members and three different teams... but it feels like we've only just begun." Rachael's journey hasn't been easy, and her battle with cancer is ongoing. "I have head scans every three months to monitor the tumour and make sure it's not growing," Rachael shared. ‌ "After my last scan, because it's remained stable, they've now moved me to scans every four months. It might not sound like a big difference, but to me, it's huge—it's one less scan a year. "They're still scanning my spine regularly, though, just to make sure whatever's there doesn't develop into something more serious. It could be anything—osteoporosis, arthritis—they're just keeping a close eye on it." Yet through it all, dance has been a constant source of healing, confidence, and community. ‌ For Louise, Creazione's mission has always been rooted in building a supportive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together through the power of dance. "We've always been about the community," Louise explains. The Senior Latin Team have gone onto win the Welsh Alliance Competition - an incredible achievement (Image: Emma Llewellyn ) Creazione Dance Company, which has been thriving in Caerphilly for the past 20 years, began as a community-focused initiative to get young people active through dance. ‌ Over time, the company has expanded its offerings to cater to all ages—from toddlers to seniors—and all skill levels. Today, the studio is home to a wide range of styles, including street, ballet, and contemporary dance. The company has carved out a particular niche in Latin American dance—think Strictly Come Dancing, with Paso Doble, Salsa, and more. It's this energetic and expressive style that Rachael and Emma have come to embody with pride. For Rachael, dance has become an essential part of her healing journey. "It's funny, because I hate getting dressed up and doing all the costumes," she admits. "But now, I love having my make up done. The first time I had my hair and makeup done for a competition, I couldn't believe the compliments. So I do like that side of it because I never wear makeup normally." And although her journey is far from over, Rachael's story continues to inspire those around her. Emma, has seen first-hand how dancing has not only transformed her own life but also brought together a group of people with similar struggles. ‌ "We've all been through so much," Emma shares. "And with everything Rachael's been through, she's still the first one knocking on the door, encouraging us to keep going... It just shows that you can live with it and do things. "She's inspired all of us, and that's what makes this so powerful. We've found a family here, and that's something I'll always be grateful for." Looking ahead, the team is preparing for the next level of competition, with new members joining in, including men. The team is set to compete in the British Championships in Blackpool later this year, as well as the World Championships in February 2026. "It's ambitious, but we've come so far. And I believe in this team," Louise says. ‌ As the dance company continues to grow, Louise hopes more people will find the kind of healing and connection that Rachael, Emma and so many other's have discovered. " I think that it's important for our community to know that there are groups out there— partnerships and programs that you can get involved in — that can genuinely enhance your mental health and give you more of a positive outlook on whatever it is you're going through. "Whether it is cancer like Rachel or something else... strokes, heart attacks, divorces— there's lots of support out there," she says. "And for me, dance is a really good outlet for expressing yourself showing feeling emotion and being allowed to do that, with a group of people who are likeminded." Article continues below

Second phase of cancer awareness campaign launched in Alappuzha
Second phase of cancer awareness campaign launched in Alappuzha

The Hindu

time06-06-2025

  • Health
  • The Hindu

Second phase of cancer awareness campaign launched in Alappuzha

The Health department has launched the second phase of the Arogyam, Anandam - Keep Cancer Away campaign in Alappuzha. It was inaugurated by H. Salam, MLA, in a function held at SD College, Alappuzha, on Thursday. Officials said the aim of the second phase was to detect and prevent oral cancer and colon cancer in men at an early stage. The Health department launched the campaign in Alappuzha on World Cancer Day on February 4. The first phase was aimed at strengthening awareness and screening for breast cancer and cervical cancer, which specifically affects women. It targeted women in the 30-65 age group. The department aims to ensure that as many men as possible undergo screening to facilitate early detection and treatment. Officials said those diagnosed with the disease would receive treatment at Government Medical College Hospital, district/general hospitals, Regional Cancer Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, and so on in accordance with established guidelines. SD College Principal V.R. Prabhakaran Nair presided. District Medical Officer Jamuna Varghese, Kudumbashree District Mission coordinator S. Renjith and others attended.

Bedfordview survivor shares skin cancer warning
Bedfordview survivor shares skin cancer warning

The Citizen

time27-05-2025

  • Health
  • The Citizen

Bedfordview survivor shares skin cancer warning

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), South Africans are at a higher risk of skin cancer. For over three decades, 83-year-old Frank Payne has called Bedfordview home. However, in the last four years, his life has been marked by an unexpected health battle: skin cancer. Payne is now using his journey to shed light and educate others on the dangers of sun exposure. ALSO READ: Campaign urges full support for child cancer survivors 'I was always out in the sun, playing water polo and golf, all without a cap. 'It didn't seem like a big deal back then,' he explained. Little did he know that that time in the sun would eventually catch up with him. Payne was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a common but potentially dangerous type of skin cancer caused by prolonged sun exposure. 'It's basically sun damage. 'It starts as a crusty lesion, like a pimple or dry patch on exposed skin.' Basal cell carcinoma is just one of several types of skin cancer, including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. While melanoma is the deadliest, all skin cancers pose a threat if not detected and treated early. His journey has involved multiple surgeries, some requiring skin grafts to remove cancerous lesions from his scalp, nose, ear, and even under his eye. 'The ones on my head were the worst. 'Now they catch them earlier.' His treatment was conducted by a team including a dermatologist and a plastic surgeon, who work together to biopsy and remove cancerous spots while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. ALSO READ: World Cancer Day on February 4 gets new campaign 'Fortunately, my skin heals well. I experienced very little pain following surgery. I've had a shoulder replacement, and even then, I didn't need painkillers,' he said. 'The damage was done when I was young. It's not about what you're doing now; it's about what you did back then,' he said. 'I think the biggest message is prevention. 'Our children should be wearing hats. 'In Australia, they can't even go outside during school without one,' he warned. Though his journey has been filled with hospital visits, biopsies, and surgeries, he credits his sense of humour, family and his dogs for keeping his spirits high. Now in his eighties, he has become a living reminder of the importance of early detection and sun safety. 'If something looks suspicious, a spot that doesn't heal, something crusty or new, go get it checked. Don't wait.' Cansa explained that while May marks the end of summer for South Africans with winter fast approaching, it's also Melanoma Awareness Month, reminding us to continue to be sunsmart throughout the year, no matter the weather conditions. 'South Africa could become the skin cancer capital of the world,' said general medical practitioner Dr Donny Fick, who raised awareness for skin cancer when he took part in the 2024 Two Oceans run half marathon in April this year. 'I used the event to spotlight skin cancer because South Africa has high running participant numbers, with an increasing number of people having taken up the sport since COVID-19.' Fick said, while he is not saying there is a connection between more runners and a higher occurrence of skin cancer, he says runners focus on the proper shoes and nutrition, but not so much on protecting themselves from the sun. 'Not enough runners use Sunscreen, and very few wear hats. 'Using the Two Oceans as a platform was an attempt to educate the runners and the rest of the population about the harmful effects of the sun.' Figures prove that South Africans are at a higher risk of skin cancer. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is one of the top 10 cancers in the country among men and women, according to the National Cancer Registry, 2023. ALSO READ: Breast cancer and mental health in the spotlight at Edenvale chambers The May melanoma awareness drive focuses on cancer risk reduction and early detection, which applies to most types of cancer. It means adjusting lifestyle choices if necessary to lower the risk of cancer and to keep a watchful eye for warning signs that need to be checked by a medical professional. Melanomas develop in the cells (melanocytes) that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Melanomas can develop on any skin colour and anywhere on the body, including the head, neck, eyes, under the fingernails, the genitals and the soles of the feet or palms of the hands. They can be similar in colour to a mole, have no colour at all or be slightly red. While melanomas most often develop in areas exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face, they can also occur in areas that don't receive much sun exposure and can show up inside the body. All ethnic and racial groups are susceptible to melanoma; however, the typical patient has a fair complexion and a tendency to burn in the sun, even after a brief exposure to sunlight. Although there is no conclusive evidence that exposure to sunlight causes melanoma, lesions are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas of the body. ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni Population-Based Cancer Registry sheds light on cancer in the region Other risk factors include the occurrence of a previous melanoma in the patient and a close family member, such as a parent or a sibling. According to Lorraine Govender, Cansa national manager of health programmes, 'We advocate checking your spots. It's a highly presentable cancer; you can easily detect it on your skin.' Cansa also advises companies whose employees work outside in the sun, such as those in the agricultural or building industries, to ensure they have adequate protection against the sun. Look out for sunscreens, clothing, hats, and summer accessories that bear the Cansa Seal of Recognition. 'Even driving, you need to protect yourself,' she explained. 'Certain UV rays penetrate windows.' She added that they also penetrate clouds, so you must wear sunscreen on overcast days. Ficks said that the sooner people start using sunscreen, the better. 'Protecting yourself from the sun slows down the ageing process,' he said. Govender agreed, stating, 'Sunscreen should be a mandatory part of any beauty regime for both men and women. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 20 or higher, according to skin type. 'Men can be really bad at remembering to use sunscreen,' said Fick. Part of his awareness campaign is to emphasise that men also need sun protection. 'Just do it,' he said, 'You will thank me later.' ALSO READ: Celebrate October as the Breast Cancer Awareness Month In South Africa, the risk of melanoma seems to be increasing in people under 40, especially women. Signs and symptoms of melanoma To help identify characteristics of unusual moles that may indicate melanomas or other skin cancers, think of the letters A, B, C, D and E: • Asymmetry: Halves might not match when you draw a line through the mole. • Border irregularities: Edges may be scalloped or notched. • Colour variations: Different shades or unconventional colours may appear. • Diameter: Moles that are wider than a pencil eraser. • Evolving characteristics: Encompasses any change in size, shape, colour, elevation, or new symptoms like bleeding or itching. Cancerous (malignant) moles vary in appearance, with some showing all the changes listed above and others having only one or two unusual characteristics. ALSO READ: CHOC calls for support for children living with cancer The first sign of melanoma is usually a new spot or an existing mole or freckle that changes in appearance. Some changes can include growing in size or evolving; edges that are irregular rather than smooth and even; a range of colours such as brown, black, blue, red, white or light grey and moles becoming itchy or bleeding. Any irregularities should immediately be reported to a doctor or dermatologist. It is a good idea to arrange an annual skin examination with a dermatologist. Bookings for screening may be made at your nearest Cansa Care Centre. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!

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