Melanoma & Skin Cancer
Know Your Moles
A mole or freckle that changes can be the first sign of skin cancer. People with a few larger moles or many moles are at increased risk.
Remember the ABCs of changing moles—they may be the first signs of melanoma:
One half of the mole is unlike the other half.
The border of the mole is irregular, scalloped, or poorly
defined.
The mole is varied from area to another. There may be
shades of tan and brown and black and sometimes even
white, red or blue.
The diameter of the mole is larger than 6 mm (as a rule),
which is the same diameter of a pencil eraser.
Ordinary moles do not change over time. A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or texture is a warning sign as is a mole that tingles, itches, burns, bleeds, oozes, or feels strange. Another warning sign for melanoma is a sore that does not heal. NY changes to ANY moles in ANY way should be evaluated by a doctor immediately!