An early warning sign of skin cancer is a new, suspicious looking lesion on your
skin. You may have some moles or dark patches on your skin that are flat or slightly raised.

 

Usually these will remain harmless all
your life. But moles or patches of normal skin that change in size, shape or colour over weeks or months in adult life should be shown to your doctor.Fortunately, there is no reason to panic, since most skin blemishes are not cancerous.

 

To determine if the lesion is cancerous or not, the doctor or nurse will usually first discuss your medical history to determine your risk factors, including the history of skin cancer in your family and the number of prior sunburns. A skin examination will follow, during which the doctor will note the size, shape, color, and texture of the suspicious area.

 

What should I be looking out for?

 

Get to know your skin and look out for any changes. When checking your skin use the ABCD rule to help you remember the main warning signs for malignant melanoma. Also remember to look out for other changes that might indicate less serious non-melanoma skin cancer.

The ABCD rule :

 

If you notice any of the following signs, then see your doctor without delay:

•  

• Asymmetry - the two halves of your mole do not look the same

 

• Border - the edges of your mole are irregular, blurred or jagged

 

• Color - the colour of your mole is uneven, with more than one shade

 

• Diameter - your mole is wider than 6mm in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser)

 

 

 

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What if I notice a change?

 

If you are concerned about skin changes, then you must visit your doctor without delay. And there is any changes in a mole, freckle or normal patch of skin that occurs quickly, over weeks or months, should be taken seriously.