Mind Your Moles
It is surprising how many people dismiss the moles they discover, thinking they aren’t big enough to be a concern. Many moles can’t even be seen, and undiscovered moles can become very serious and even fatal. The fact is that skin cancer affects most adults regardless of race, ethnicity, and gender. As adults enter their older years, skin cancer is more likely, which is why having regular skin cancer screenings is so critical to ensuring nothing is missed. Professional dermatologists have the equipment, training, and experience to do thorough in-office screenings that offer not only peace of mind but also the next steps when necessary.
As summer is upon us, the temptation may be to spend more time in the sun, but without protection from the harmful rays, people open themselves up to a greater risk of skin cancer. Moles should not be ignored, and there are other signs to watch for that may indicate skin cancer. Monitoring and minding your moles are the best ways to stay ahead of signs of skin cancer. Understanding benign and malignant moles can be complex, which is why anyone who suspects they may have a mole that needs to be seen by a professional should visit a local and licensed dermatologist.
Moles Are Common, But Not To Be Ignored
Moles are very common, and these growths can appear anywhere on the body. Moles that are one color, have a defined shape, and are smaller than the size of a pencil eraser are typically benign, meaning harmless. Some may opt to have these moles removed for cosmetic reasons, but it is recommended to have regular skin cancer screenings to identify any new or unusual moles as early as possible. Cancerous moles, which are malignant, are called melanoma and can be fatal if not addressed because skin cancer can spread throughout the body. Any moles that have an irregular shape, are large, and have various colors may be a sign that the mole has cancerous cells. Because skin cancer is highly treatable, the timing is critical. Never ignore moles that have any of these physical signs. If you can’t see every part of your body or have someone who can help do a thorough check for moles in those hard-to-see places, please contact a local dermatologist today and schedule a skin cancer screening.
The Alphabet Assessment
The ABCDEs of Melanoma is a self-assessment guide for people to determine if their mole has traits of a malignant mole.
A stands for asymmetry, which means that benign moles are typically even on both sides and have a clear shape. Moles that don’t have defined sides can indicate skin cancer.
B stands for border, or the clarity of shape. Blurred lines that are irregular are more common in melanoma.
C stands for the color of the mole. A consistent color throughout is common in benign moles, where different colors in the same area should be checked out and tested for cancer.
D stands for the diameter of the mole. 6 millimeters is the standard size, with some variation. When moles grow larger, they have a higher chance of containing cancerous cells.
E stands for evolve, meaning how the mole changes over time. If the mole remains the same shape, size, and color over time, it is likely benign. Moles that grow, change color, and evolve should be checked out more thoroughly by a licensed professional.
Time for Professional Advice
This may be the first time you are thinking about skin cancer or a mole on your skin. Often, when they appear, people don’t think much about it, but this can be a mistake. Moles that change or appear different or odd in shape and color need to be seen by a professional. Dermatologists are skilled in this area and have all the equipment to identify cancerous moles and treat them early on. Moles that become tender to the touch, itch, or bleed should be seen immediately. Early detection can save lives, and successful treatment occurs most often when moles are treated as soon as they are noticed. If there is a family history of skin cancer, or skin has been repeatedly exposed to burns and the sun, it may be expected to have moles at some point, and these moles often appear later in life.
Annual Skin Cancer Screenings
Annual skin cancer screenings are about preventative skincare. One in five Americans will get skin cancer before the age of 70. Lighter skin tones are more susceptible, but darker skin is not immune to skin cancer – this is misunderstood, and it is critical that this myth is dispelled. All adults need to be mindful and watchful for moles as they age. When it is impossible to see every part of your skin, use a full-length mirror or visit a local dermatologist. Because these screenings are preventative care, more insurance companies are covering these visits as part of health maintenance, like an annual doctor visit.
Contact Buckhead Dermatology today for an appointment and give yourself peace of mind!