Recognizing Skin Cancer

Doing monthly skin checkups is the best way to find new marks or skin changes. During your skin checkups, be sure to follow the ABCDEs of skin checks. This means checking moles or growths for Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving (changing). Note, too, if your growths bleed, itch, or are painful.

The ABCDEs of Skin Checks

Check your moles or growths for signs of melanoma using ABCDE:

• Asymmetry: the sides of the mole or growth don't match

• Border: the edges are ragged, notched, or blurred

• Color: the color within the mole or growth varies

• Diameter: the mole or growth is larger than 6 mm (size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving: the size, shape, or color of the mole or growth is changing (evolving is not shown below.)

Who's At Risk?

Anyone can get skin cancer. But you are at greater risk if you have:

• Fair skin, light-colored hair, or light-colored eyes

• Many moles on your skin

• A history of sunburns from sunlight or tanning beds

• A family history of skin cancer

• A history of exposure to radiation or chemicals

• A weakened immune system

Also, a personal history of skin cancer puts you at risk for recurring skin cancer.

How to Check Your Skin

Do your monthly skin checkups in front of a full-length mirror. Check all parts of your body, including your:

• Head (ears, face, neck, and scalp)

• Torso (front, back, and sides)

• Arms (tops, undersides, upper, and lower)

• Hands (palms, backs, and fingers)

• Buttocks and genitals

• Legs (front, back, and sides)

• Feet (tops, soles, toes, and between toes)