How to recognize signs of skin cancer

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Skin cancer is a silent killer, and is the most rampant among all of the cancer types. With early detection, chances of survival increase. Luckily, there are proactive steps that people can take in order to identify and take action against skin cancer. You can detect skin cancer on your own by checking your moles regularly. Enlist the help of a close friend or family member and look over all of the moles on your body, at least once a year. Follow these steps to know what to look for.

Things You Will Need

A friend to help scan for cancerous moles

Step 1

Check the symmetry of your moles. Moles that are irregularly shaped can be an indicator of skin cancer. Cancerous moles often have ragged looking edges, while healthy ones tend to be smooth and rounded. If you have abnormally shaped moles, see your doctor just to be sure it isnÃ¢ € ™t an early form of skin cancer.

Step 2

Keep an eye on the color of your moles. Healthy moles tend to be brown in color, but there are variations of mole colors that are not to be a cause of concern. However, if a mole is two or more colors, or if it begins to change color, it may be a cancerous mole. If you find a multi colored mole, or one that has changed color, see your doctor immediately.

Step 3

Watch for changes among your moles. If you notice that a mole has changed in color, shape, or size, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Checking your skin thoroughly for cancerous moles at least once a year should make it easier to notice any drastic mole changes.

Step 4

If a mole is a source of irritation, see your doctor to rule out the chances of skin cancer. Sometimes clothes will rub on a mole and cause discomfort. In a lot of these instances, a mole will be raised; another sign of potential skin cancer.

Step 5

Take a good look at your complexion and hair color. If you have fair skin and freckles, you are at a higher risk for skin cancer. If you fit this description, be especially diligent in detecting cancerous moles.

Step 6

Skin cancer affects all kinds of people, in all of the age ranges. There is a great danger in brushing off a questionable mole, and it is not worth the risk. Be proactive; if you have a worrisome mole, see your doctor.
The best protection one has against skin cancer is detection. Protect yourself and the ones you love by being aware of the signs of skin cancer.