Is It Just a Mole or Skin Cancer?

Is It Just a Mole or Skin Cancer?

Use “ABCDE” to detect what’s going on with your skin.

As the most common cancer worldwide, skin cancer affects 20% of Americans by age 70. Early treatment increases your likelihood of short- and long-term survival. How can you tell the difference between a normal mole and cancer? Remember ABCDE.

Asymmetry

Normal moles are symmetrical. If the two sides of a mole don’t look alike, it may be cancerous.

Border

The outer edge of a benign mole is usually smooth and even. Cancerous moles, on the other hand, may have notched, uneven edges.

Color

You probably don’t have to worry about moles that are a single color. Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, can cause moles that include multiple browns, blacks, or tans. Cancerous moles can also be red, white, blue, colorless, or abnormally dark.

Diameter

While moles of all sizes can be cancerous, smaller moles are often benign. You should be more concerned if a mole’s diameter reaches a quarter inch — roughly the size of a pencil eraser.

Evolve

A normal mole usually doesn’t change. It stays the same shape, size and color, year after year. A cancerous mole may evolve over time. It may even cause symptoms, such as bleeding or itching.

Want help understanding the moles on your body? call 307-212-7708 to find a provider at Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County today.