A Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.
B Border irregularity: The border of the mole is not regular,
i.e., it extends into the surrounding skin.
C Color Change: The color of the mole is not uniform. You may see shades of brown, black, or even white, blue or
red on the mole.
D Diameter: Really we should call it size. The mole is bigger
than a pencil eraser
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Many people have
moles on their skin. Most of the moles are benign. However,
if someone told you that spending 15 minutes every month might help keep you alive and well,
you’d do it, wouldn’t you? Well, that’s exactly the
amount of time the American Association of Dermatologists recommends people spend checking themselves for
skin cancer, especially melanoma, every month.
The skin examination for melanoma screening
might be easier than you might think. Dermatologists call it
"ABCD" procedure so people can remember them easily. Once a month,
examine your body for moles and dark spots looking for the changes at
left.
Other unusual skin changes may indicate melanoma include
bleeding or ulceration of a mole
If you see these skin changes, they
could be early warning signs melanoma or other skin cancer. You should see
your health care professional as soon as possible.
Remember, these skin changes do not necessary mean skin cancer.
Just get them checked out. A biopsy might be necessary for definetive
diagnosis.
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