Melanoma is an overgrowth of the cells known as melanocytes. These are cells that make a pigment called melanin when your skin is exposed to the sun. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer but it's curable if found early. Melanoma can spread to other parts of your body (through your blood or lymph system) where it may grow and form secondary tumors. This spreading is called metastasis. It affects slightly more women than men. The most common place for women to develop melanoma is on their legs; for men, it's on their chest or back.
Attribution: BUPA