Now completely updated! The essential guide for people with melanoma.

In Beating Melanoma, world-renowned skin cancer expert Dr. Steven Q. Wang provides an indispensable guide for those diagnosed with melanoma. Now in its second edition and completely revised, this practical guide offers up-to-date research on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of melanoma, and a readable narrative that demystifies everything from the pathology report to the stages of cancer. This new edition features updated information on new immunotherapies and targeted therapies, as well as access to online interviews with more than 25 leading melanoma experts from fields including dermatology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, dermatopathology, and genetics.

Beating Melanoma approaches the disease in two phases. First, Dr. Wang lays out a step-by-step guide for approaching the "mad rush" phase—an intense and stressful period from diagnosis to completing initial treatment. Dr. Wangs calm guidance helps readers through this critical time with an easy-to-understand plan for ensuring optimal treatment and survival outcomes. Once the mad rush phase is over, the "marathon phase" begins—life resumes its normal shape but with lingering concerns about new melanoma and metastases. Here Dr. Wang addresses common questions about prevention and prognosis. This guide is a thorough, comforting, and informative book for melanoma patients and their families.

Steven Q. Wang, M.D., is director of dermatologic surgery and dermatology at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Basking Ridge, New Jersey. He has published widely in medical journals and academic textbooks; has lectured extensively in the United States, Britain, Italy, Israel, Spain, Canada, China, Hong Kong, and Mexico; and has been featured as a skin cancer expert in the New York Times.

Preface
Melanoma Experts
1. Introduction: You Have Melanoma. Now What?
The "Mad Rush" Phase: Navigating with the Five-Step Plan
Step 1. Understand the Diagnostic Information in the Pathology Report
Step 2. Understand the Severity of Your Melanoma with the AJCC Staging System
Step 3. Understand Your Treatment Options
Step 4. Understand Survival Rate and Prognosis
Step 5. Find the Clinical Experts in Your Area
3. The "Marathon" Phase: Surviving Melanoma
I. Medical Follow-Up
II. How Does a Dermatologist Find a New Melanoma?
III. How Can You Find a New Melanoma?
IV. How to Prevent Melanoma
V. Why You Should Not Use Tanning Beds
4. Networking: Finding and Sharing Information
5. Beating Melanoma Checklist
Appendixes
A. Basal Cell Cancer
B. Squamous Cell Cancer
Glossary
Index

Dr. Wang provides all the information necessary to intelligently and effectively confront a melanoma diagnosis. An essential resource for those individuals recently diagnosed with melanoma.

— Tara G., melanoma survivor

Well written, informative, and easy to read. Dr. Wang delivers the information with a fresh perspective that will certainly empower patients as they deal with this dangerous skin cancer. Every melanoma patient needs to read this book!

— Harold S. Rabinovitz, MD, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

This book is suitable for a wide audience, from patients to health care professionals... It gathers together all the important information you need to get on and make decisions... This book will empower you—read it!

— Macmillan Cancer Support

Any general lending library and many a health collection needs this!

— Midwest Book Review

Beating Melanoma is a beacon of hope and empowerment for those navigating the complexities of melanoma. Dr. Wang, a seasoned dermatologist and compassionate melanoma expert, delivers a comprehensive guide that not only imparts crucial medical insights, but also offers unwavering support to patients and their families. It is an indispensable resource for the journey toward overcoming melanoma.

— David L. Swanson, Mayo Clinic Arizona

Dr. Wangs Beating Melanoma is the ultimate guide that has woven together the collective wisdom of 25 world medical experts across specialties. This book provides a holistic toolkit, offering patients and families a comprehensive approach to tackling melanoma.

— Deborah Sarnoff, The Skin Cancer Foundation

Beating Melanoma is an outstanding guide for those navigating a melanoma diagnosis or aiming to prevent future skin cancers. With its blend of reliable medical information and practical advice provided by a distinguished panel of melanoma experts, this book serves as an invaluable resource for patients and their families.

— Allan C. Halpern, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center