Skin cancer is something Charlotte, NC residents should be on the lookout for. With an estimated one out of every five Americans being diagnosed with skin cancer at some point, it is something many of us will have to deal with. Detecting skin cancer early is important, and something you can help do at home. How? By following the ABCDEs.
The ABCDEs
When it comes to spotting skin cancer, there are five things you should watch for. Luckily, it is easy to remember. Just remember the first few letters of the alphabet.
A: Asymmetry. This means the mole in question is not symmetrical. Or, half of the spot looks different than the other half. If you notice a spot that is starting to look this way, be sure to reach out to a healthcare professional.
B: Border. Healthy moles should have a defined border that is the same all the way around. Watch for spots that have an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border as this can be a sign of skin cancer.
C: Color. While moles and other spots can be different colors, such as dark brown or light brown, the important thing to watch is that they are the same color. If you have a spot that starts to have varying colors in it, get it checked for skin cancer.
D: Diameter. The size of your spot is important to watch too. Melanomas, the most common type of skin cancer, is usually greater than six millimeters, or the size of a pencil eraser when they are diagnosed. If your spot is larger, be sure to have it checked. It is important to note, that melanoma can be smaller, but looking for ones over the average size is an important tool in detecting a problem early.
E: Evolving. If you notice a spot that is changing, whether that be in size, shape, or color, you should have it looked at by a professional. A mole that starts to change its appearance can be a sign of cancer.
Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care.