Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Brooke Walker ReportingWe hear warnings this time of year to protect our skin from the summer sun. The number of cases of skin cancer has doubled among adults in the last 30 years. But in just the last year, studies show another startling increase -- a doubling of melanoma cases in children.
When it comes to skin cancer, sun is the primary source. Or is it?
Doctors used to think it took years for skin cancer to develop. But now they aren't so sure, as they are treating more teenagers and even young children for the deadliest form of skin cancer.
For seven-year old Alex Gill, it began with a changing mole.
Alex Gill: "It started changing colors and shape real quick, within a couple of weeks. Growing up, I was always supposed to check my moles."
Sabrina Gill, Alex's Mom: "And I always have with my kids, but I honestly didn't think I would ever find it."
Sabrina Gill has a long family history of melanoma. Because of that, and because of her son's fair complexion, she has always been extra observant.
Sabrina Gill, Alex's mom: "Keep an eye out, pay attention to your kids' skin and be aware of changes."
Dr. Phillip Barnette, Primary Children's Hospital: "If she had not caught it at this stage, and it went on, it would be much more difficult to treat."
Dr. Phillip Barnette says often children are diagnosed late, giving the disease time to spread.
Dr. Phillip Barnette: "Kids will often come to us with thicker melanoma or more invasive and bounced around to doctors who aren't on the lookout for it."
He says, although pediatric melanoma is still extremely rare, yearly exams are encouraged at every age.
Dr. Phillip Barnette: "It brings up the importance of treating every kid as a potential patient for skin cancer, with or without the sun exposure."
Because it's such a new trend, doctors base treatment on adult research. In Alex's case, it's working well. Doctors consider him in the clear and, with regular medication, expect a positive outcome, something Alex is grateful for.
Doctors aren't sure why they are seeing an increase, but they recommend following the ABC's at every age. Pay particular attention to the Asymmetry, Border, Color and Diamater of a mole. And contact a doctor of dermatologist if you notice any changes.
