Excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer, Australia’s most prevalent cancer type. Melanoma rates in the land Down Under are among the world’s highest. Early detection of skin cancers makes treatment and cure extremely likely. Knowing the 7 key warning signs can prompt you to seek critical clinical checks by a qualified dermatologist at Skin cancer clinic like SunDoctors when risk arises. Don’t ignore or minimize suspicious changes. Skin checks save lives.
1 – The Mole That Doesn’t Match
Keep a watchful eye on your moles. One that stands out and differs significantly from the rest warrants suspicion. Changes to the size, shape, color or symmetry of a mole may signal developing melanoma. Evolving moles that differ from their past appearance or other body moles need assessment. Don’t wait for multiple changes before getting checked. Any noticeable morphing requires evaluation.
2 – Irregular Borders
Look closely at mole borders. Melanoma moles often have ragged, blurred, uneven borders compared to the uniform edges of benign moles. The borders may appear notched or faded rather than crisp and defined. An irregular mole circumference should raise a red flag. Don’t overlook fuzziness.
3 – Color Changes
Variations in color – spots, blue, black, brown or red patches – call for closer examination. Benign moles are usually solid brown. Melanoma can manifest as multi-colored lesions. Watch for spreading pinkness or new light patches in darker moles. Heed pigment produces an uneven mole complexion.
4 – Enlarging Diameter
Carefully monitor moles showing any increase in size, especially rapid expansion over weeks or months. The widening diameter indicates cellular changes needing assessment. Outward rather than upward growth matters more. Changes as small as 1/4 inch warrant inspection. Disregard the myth that cancerous moles only grow larger.
5 – Itching and Bleeding
Itchy, painful or bleeding moles should never be ignored. Any odd sensations, inflammation, oozing or ulceration around a mole merits urgent evaluation. While most itchy moles will be benign, these symptoms may accompany early melanoma. Always check out irritation, tenderness or bleeding to be safe. Don’t scratch suspicious spots.
6 – Slow Go Away
Moles that start losing color and fading away also deserve examination. The gradual disappearance could mean melanoma is spreading below the skin’s surface. Don’t presume clearing color equals clearing concern. Disappearing could signal a developing problem. Increased color loss around the edges flags risk.
7 – Just Doesn’t Feel Right
Sometimes a mole simply feels different – though it may look ordinary. Changes in sensation like hardness, raised texture or tenderness should prompt scrutiny. Your instincts provide clues as well. A spot that makes you pause without obvious visual changes warrants getting checked out. Don’t hesitate to play it safe.
Conclusion
Don’t panic over every minor skin modification but do stay vigilant. Knowing the 7 main warning signs equips you to recognize when professional evaluation becomes advisable. Schedule a check promptly if any concerns arise. Early detection makes treatment effective. Listen to your skin and your gut. Your health is worth a visit to the dermatologist.