Freckles, moles, brown spots and rough patches are common skin developments as we age. While most of these marks are harmless, others may signal a more dangerous condition like skin cancer, which is why it is critical to stay aware of your skin's condition. One million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year and one person will die from melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, almost every hour.
Here's where it pays to be proactive: the rates of recovery from skin cancer are the highest in cases that are caught during their early stages, reason enough to see a dermatologist for an annual visit. And while our lives may be hectic and overbooked, it's extremely important to take time to examine our skin for the development of spots even at times when we're not scheduled for a skin exam. So which types of spots may signal skin cancer? Follow our guide to find out about the warning signs that warrant a professional opinion.
One in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime, making early detection extremely important. What are the warning signs in your skin's spots?
- Your spot is asymmetrical. If one half of your spot looks different than the other, it's important to have it checked.
- The border of your spot is irregular. A scalloped, uneven or poorly defined border on a spot is a warning sign that you should see a doctor.
- Your spot is uneven in color. A spot with varied color (it may be tan, brown, black or red or have areas of white of blue) should be tested by a professional.
- Your spot is larger than a pencil eraser. A dermatologist should check all moles or growths bigger than 1/4 inch.
- Your spot changes. If you see a new growth develop, or you notice that you have a mole or spot that is growing and changing in shape or color, have it checked by a dermatologist. Freckles, which fade when you are out of the sun, and liver spots, which are flat, brown spots that do not fade, are benign.
An easy way to remember these warning signs is with the letters ABCDE, representing: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color, Diameter and Evolution. Keep these in mind as you regularly check your skin, even between fingers and toes and areas normally covered by clothing and hair. You may want to use this guide, provided by the American Academy of Dermatology.
Follow up on any suspicious marks with a visit to your dermatologist, who can give you a professional, head-to-toe skin exam. You may also want to visit a dermatologist to remove moles and spots that are not currently cancerous and reduce the risk of future cancer development.
And, above all, wear broad spectrum sun protection daily to ensure that your spots stay at a minimum.
