How to Spot Cancerous Moles
Most people have moles on their skin and they are entirely harmless; however, abnormal moles can be a sign of skin cancer. Early diagnosis increase chances of successful treatment, so be aware of the things to watch for. Certain signs can help you tell the difference between a healthy mole and a potentially cancerous one. See a physician if you have any concerns about moles you're not sure about.
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Instructions
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Check the color of your moles. Moles naturally have a wide variation in terms of colors and shapes, but there are certain features that should serve as a red flag for being potentially cancerous. Healthy moles tend to be symmetrical, small, and one color throughout the entire mole.
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Watch for mole growth. One sign of a potentially cancerous mole is a sudden growth of the mole in question. If an old mole suddenly begins to change or grow, see your doctor.
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Note the mole shape. Healthy moles tend to be round and symmetrical. A mole that is asymmetrical or an odd shape should be watched closely.
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Examine your body for raised moles. A normal mole is usually flat. If a mole is raised and is a source of irritation upon being bumped or rubbed, it could be a cause for concern.
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Look for moles that change color. Most moles are brown; a potentially cancerous mole could be several different colors. If a mole is both brown and black, watch it closely and consult your doctor to be sure that it is not cancerous.
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Study the mole edges. Examine the edges of body moles. Ragged, blurred edges can be a symptom of a cancerous mole. Healthy moles tend to have edges that are clean and rounded.
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Consider your skin type and fairness. Many moles on your body may be a sign of being more vulnerable to skin cancer. Being fair-skinned is another reason to keep an especially watchful eye on the health of body moles.
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Check your skin on a regular basis. Checking the skin periodically can help identify potentially cancerous moles early on, making treatment more likely to be successful.
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Tips & Warnings
If any of your moles match the warning signs of cancerous moles, see your doctor. Always see your doctor with health concerns.
References
- Photo Credit Dick Luria/Photodisc/Getty Images
