Skin Cancer Awareness – Learn Your ABCDEs of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early. Because skin cancers often begin as a subtle change in a mole or spot on the skin, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. One of the simplest and most effective tools for early detection is to learn the ABCDEs of skin cancer. These guidelines serve to help identify warning signs of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. While not every abnormal looking mole is cancerous, any change that fits these patterns should be evaluated by a medical professional.

A is for Asymmetry

A healthy mole is usually symmetrical, meaning both halves look similar. If you draw a line through the middle of a mole and the two sides do NOT match, it is asymmetrical, which can be a red flag.

B is for Border

Benign moles tend to have smooth, even borders. Melanomas may have irregular, jagged, blurred or notched edges. A border that looks uneven or fuzzy should be checked.

C is for Color

Normal moles are typically a single shade of brown. Multiple colors within the same spot, such as varying shades of brown, black, red, white or even blue, is considered unusual. Changes in color over time are also concerning.

D is for Diameter

While melanomas can be small, lesions larger than about 6 millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser) are more suspicious, especially if they are growing. Any mole that is increasing in size should be evaluated.

E is for Evolving

Perhaps the most important sign is change. Any mole or skin lesion that is evolving in size, shape, color or elevation, or showing symptoms like itching or bleeding, should be examined by a healthcare provider.

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