Introduction
Moles are a common skin condition that can appear anywhere on the body. While most moles are harmless, some can be a sign of skin cancer. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer and to take action if you notice any changes in your moles. In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for in moles and when it’s time to see a doctor. We’ll also provide tips on how to protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
If Your Mole Looks Like This, It’s Time to See a Doctor
Moles are a common skin condition that can appear anywhere on the body. While most moles are harmless, some can be a sign of skin cancer. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a potentially dangerous mole so you can seek medical attention if necessary.
What to Look For
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you look for the ABCDEs of melanoma when examining your moles:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- Border: The edges of the mole are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined.
- Color: The color of the mole is not the same throughout and may include shades of brown or black, or sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: The mole is larger than the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Your doctor can examine the mole and determine if it’s cancerous or not.
When to See a Doctor
In addition to the ABCDEs, you should also be aware of any other changes in your moles. If you notice any of the following, it’s important to see a doctor right away:
- A mole that is itchy, painful, or bleeding
- A mole that is growing rapidly
- A mole that has an irregular shape or color
- A mole that is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)
It’s also important to be aware of any new moles that appear. If you notice any new moles, it’s important to have them checked by a doctor.
Conclusion
It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a potentially dangerous mole so you can seek medical attention if necessary. If you notice any of the ABCDEs or any other changes in your moles, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Additionally, if you notice any new moles, it’s important to have them checked by a doctor.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, but it’s important to be vigilant for symptoms of skin cancer year-round. Any change in a mole or freckle could be a sign of skin cancer. Regular self-exams can lead to early detection of melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer, which can be life-saving. Here are the warning signs to look for. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Experts advise checking your skin regularly and applying the ABCDE test to any moles or freckles. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor ASAP:
A = asymmetry
B = border changes
C = color changes
D = diameter changes (such as an increase in size)
E = elevation or evolution (a growth that has changed over time)
The American Academy of Dermatology says that in addition to changes, if you see any spot on your skin that’s different from the others, or see any itching or bleeding, you should make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist.
The AAD says that although most melanomas are greater than the size of a pencil eraser—about six millimeters—melanoma is often diagnosed when it’s smaller. About 50 percent of melanomas are self-detected.
According to the AAD, a spot that’s suspicious for cancer may have varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue. Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined borders can also be a sign of skin cancer.
These are the steps the AAD advises you take in doing a skin self-exam:
- Check your body in a full-length mirror, both sides with your arms raised
- Examine your underarms, forearms, and palms
- Look at your legs, the soles of your feet, and between your toes
- Use a hand mirror to check your hair and scalp
- Use a hand mirror to check your back and buttocks
To reduce your risk of skin cancer, the CDC advises limiting your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is produced by the sun and tanning beds. Those steps include avoiding indoor tanning and protecting your skin from the sun, particularly when the UV Index in your area is above 3. The protective steps include staying in the shade, wearing clothes that protect your arms and legs, wearing a hat, and wearing an broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.
Michael Martin