Is that mole dangerous? How to spot early signs of skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common type of cancer across the world, and it often starts with something as subtle as a new mole or a small change in your skin-- which often go unnoticed. However, if detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable. That’s why learning how to recognise suspicious spots that can possibly be due to skin cancer is important. Whether it's a new growth, an unusual mole, or a sore that doesn’t heal, early detection is key to treating skin cancer. Here wee list some expert-backed tips to help you spot the early signs of skin cancer and know when it’s time to see a doctor:

The ABCDE method helps in detection of melanoma (which is a serious form of skin cancer). The ABCDE method stands for:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other or irregular mole shape.
- Border: Irregular, notched, or blurred edges of the mole.
- Colour: Multiple shades (brown, black, red) of the mole.
- Diameter: If the mole is larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size) in size.
- Evolving: Changes in shape, colour, or size of the mole.
If a mole shows any of these signs, then do take it seriously. Visit a dermatologist to get it checked.

Do you have skin sores or scabs that heal and come back or never heal and go away? This could be an early sign of basal or squamous cell carcinoma. Such sores often appear as pink, red, or slightly scaly patches on the skin and they may even bleed or ooze. If you have a sore which stays more than three weeks or keeps recurring at the same spot, then don't take it lightly. Persistent wounds or sores-- especially in on the face, arms, or scalp-- should be examined by a doctor as it could be a subtle sign of skin cancer.

Moles should be painless and stable. But if you notice a mole that starts itching, becomes tender, bleeds, or forms a crust then it could be a possible sign of skin cancer and so should be taken seriously. These signs often indicate inflammation or structural changes in the skin they may signal something more serious than a normal mole. If you notice something similar on your skin, it's always better to consult a skin specialist.

Skin cancers don’t always start from existing moles. In some cases, it can begin from new growths like— a small lump on the skin, a shiny bump, or rough patches especially seen on areas that are exposed to the sun. If you notice something similar on your skin, then do get them checked by a skin specialist soon.

If the colour of a mole suddenly starts to change or spread into the surrounding skin or has fading edges, then this could be a sign of melanoma. This type of irregular pigment spread suggests the mole may be growing deeper or wider, and so it should be taken seriously. Always compare your moles over a period of time and take photos, if needed-- this will help you notice any changes in them that could indicate towards skin cancer. If you notice something similar, then do visit a dermatologist and get yourself checked at the earliest.