Monitoring moles is important to stay alert for melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer. If not treated early, melanoma can spread to other organs, making it difficult to treat. Melanoma begins in the skin melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. Birthmarks are normal. Almost everyone has them and most don't become cancer. But monitoring changes is important so they can be treated quickly if a problem develops.
Most of us have between 10 and 40 "common" moles, which usually develop from childhood to age 40. Common moles share a range of traits:they're round and small, no bigger than a pencil eraser; they are an even color, usually pink or brown; and they are smooth, with a clear edge. A smaller percentage of people also develop atypical – or dysplastic – moles, which are larger and may have an irregular color, surface or border.
Having moles is nothing to worry about, but you should keep an eye out for them. Here are 5 tips to protect yourself against melanoma.
1. Know your risk level: Genes and environment contribute to the risk. Factors include fair skin, childhood sunburn, presence of atypical moles, more than 50 common moles, and any personal or family history of skin cancer. For those at risk, it is important to develop a check-up schedule with a dermatologist. That could be once a year or every three months, if there is a combination of factors.
2. Map your moles: Early intervention starts with skin awareness. On the website of the Melanoma Foundation you can see the difference between innocent and suspicious moles. This is a good first step to establish a base reference to check for changes.
3. Practice the alphabet check: Do regular self-exams and think "A, B, C, D, E" to remember the top five factors when inspecting moles. “Asymmetry:an irregular shape. Border:an irregular jagged border. Color:The stain changes color or has different colors. Diameter:changes in size. Evolve:change over a period of weeks or months, it itches or bleeds. If any of these side effects occur, you should see a doctor immediately.
4. Do you see other changes? Take action!: It's not just moles that we have to take into account. Research shows that 70 percent of melanomas can develop in other areas of our skin, so if we notice changes in skin color or texture, or develop itching or bleeding, it's vital to see a doctor.
5. Protect the next generation: Ninety-five percent of melanomas are linked to UV exposure. Early skin exposure is especially harmful. Today's adults may have grown up for this notion. But we can be sure that the next generation will be protected by using sunscreen.
