Dermatology, Skin Cancer, Sun Damage
The quickest way to explain melanoma is to simply say that it is a mole that has gone bad. It is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. According to SkinCancer.org, everyone is at some risk for melanoma. Those with a family or personal history, lighter skin color, a weakened immune system, and excessive moles are at an even higher risk.
And melanoma is on the rise! The good news is that melanoma is almost always curable AS LONG AS IT IS TREATED EARLY. What does that mean to you? You need to get a yearly skin check as well as keep an eye on your own skin for any signs of skin cancer.
Look out for the ABCDEs of melanoma.
A for Asymmetry
If you were to draw a line through the middle of the mole and the 2 sides don’t match, then you should have it checked immediately.
B is for Border
If the borders are not smooth, have it checked.
C is for Color
If the is an unusual color, you should have it checked.
D is for Diameter
If the diameter of the mole is larger than a pencil eraser, it could be melanoma…even though some melanomas can be small.
E is for Evolving Keep a watch on your moles and if you see it changing in any way, or if it starts to bleed, make an appointment.
