Your Health Matters: Read Our Health Education Blog

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. In the United States, it is the fifth most common cancer in men and women; its incidence increases with age. As survival rates for people with melanoma depend on the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, early diagnosis is crucial to improve patient outcome and save lives. Although most melanomas are detected by patients themselves, clinician detection is associated with thinner, more curable tumors. Most patients with thin, invasive melanoma (Breslow thickness ≤1 mm) can expect prolonged disease-free survival and likely cure following treatment. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin. It accounts for a significant proportion of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. This section provides an introduction to melanoma, its classification, and the global burden of the disease. The age-standardized annual incidence of melanoma worldwide is estim...

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various aspects of human health. It is unique because it can be synthesized by the body through exposure to sunlight, as well as obtained from certain foods and supplements. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the secrets of vitamin D, including its sources, functions, benefits, deficiency risks, and optimal levels. Sources of Vitamin D: Sunlight: When the skin is exposed to sunlight, it synthesizes vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from cholesterol. Diet: Some food sources naturally contain vitamin D, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), cod liver oil, and egg yolks. Additionally, fortified foods like milk, orange juice, and cereals often contain added vitamin D. Forms of Vitamin D: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol): Synthesized in the skin and also found in animal-based food sources. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol): Derived from plant-based sources or fungal sources like mushrooms. Functions and Benefits of Vit...