What does a cancerous mole look like?
SKIN cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer in the UK, so it's important to know the signs.
Around 46 Brits are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer every day - but catching it early increases your chances of beating it.
How will my mole change if I have cancer?
A healthy mole is usually round or oval in shape, has a smooth edge and is generally around 6mm in diameter.
But although these details are helpful, size and shape is not the only thing to use as a marker.
This is because healthy moles can often be larger than 6mm, while melanoma (cancerous moles) are sometimes smaller.
says warning signs include a mole:
- getting bigger
- changing shape
- changing colour
- bleeding or becoming crusty
- itchy or sore
If you have a mole that shows any of these symptoms, contact your GP as soon as possible.
What is the ABCDE checklist?
If you are unsure about a mole, you can use the ABCDE checklist to help you tell the difference between what's normal and a concern.
- A - asymmetry - the two halves of the area may differ in shape or colour
- B - border - the edges of the area may be irregular or blurred, and sometimes show notches
- C - colour - this may be uneven. Several different shades of black, brown and pink may be seen
- D - diameter - most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. Report any change in size, shape or diameter to your doctor
- E - evolution – if you see progressive changes in size, shape or colour over weeks or a few months, you must seek expert help
LATEST ON SKIN CANCER
What are the treatment options for a cancerous mole?
There are two main types of skin cancer.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed 147,000 times a year in the UK, while melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is diagnosed 16,000 times a year.
The most common treatment for melanoma is surgery (usually minor), although it will depend on your circumstances.
Surgery is usually successful when treating melanoma, if it is found and diagnosed at an early stage.
If melanoma is not found until a more advanced stage, treatment is used to reduce symptoms and slow the spread of the cancer.
Even if your treatment was successful, once you have had melanoma there is still a chance that it may return.
If your cancer team thinks there is a risk of melanoma returning, you will be invited to regular check-ups to monitor your health.
Stay in the know and keep up to date with all the latest skin cancer news.