Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and in cases of melanoma, can be one of the deadliest forms of cancer. No matter why type of skin cancer you may have – early detection is key. Even for those cancers that are not deadly, skin cancer of any kind can be disfiguring.
The most important steps you can take to monitor you potential for skin cancer is to visit your dermatologist every year for a screening as well as to examine your skin at home.
When performing at home skin assessments it is advised to do so once a month.
A normal mole is usually evenly colored and either flat or raised. They are typically small with rounded borders. It is important to watch your moles for changes which could indicate the presence of cancer. You should look for the following abnormalities – also known as the ABC’s:
- A for Asymmetry
- B for Irregular Borders
- C for Color (a healthy mole should be uniform in color and brown or black)
- D for Diameter (no larger than a pencil eraser)
- E for Evolving (has the mole changed recently?)
By keeping these factors in mind when examining your skin at home, you are more likely to catch any cancerous lesion early and successfully treat your skin cancer. If you are in need of mole removal contact our office for a consultation today.
