What are the signs of skin cancer and when should I worry?

There are 3 main types of skin cancers that are common; malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. They are related to sun exposure, our skin type and our genetic tendencies to develop cancer.

So what are the signs that should worry me?

It’s simple as ABCDE. This is a quick and easy way to look at skin changes and help you decide when getting a doctor’s opinion. 

A: Asymmetry: One part does not match the other

B: Border: The sides are irregular, notched or blurred 

C: Colour: all different colours across that don’t match

D: Diameter: it’s more worrisome if it’s bigger than 5mm, you can get smaller melanomas so keep an eye out for the other changes

E: Elevation/Evolution: changes in size, shape or colour over time, has it also become raised or dipped in over time.

If there is one or more of these changes then it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have skin cancer but it’s worth getting the area looked at by a doctor who has an interest in skin problems. They will use a special magnifier with a bright light called a dermatoscope to check this out for you.

It’s always worth taking a picture of moles and skin lesions with a coin or ruler next to it for reference. It will help you monitor any changes such as any developing asymmetry, border, changes in colour, diameter and how it has evolved over that time.

In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the signs of skin cancer in order to catch it early and improve your chances of successful treatment. If you notice any changes in the appearance of your skin, such as lesions, moles, or changes in colour, size, or shape, be sure to see a doctor right away. Early detection is key in the fight against skin cancer!

Check our Previous Blog on how much time you should spend in the sun https://extracellular.co.uk/how-much-sun-is-good-for-me/. Thanks for Reading!