Detect skin cancer early

Published 22 May 2019

A melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including places which do not receive frequent sun exposure, but may have been sunburnt.

If you are worried about a mole or notice any changes that concern you - see your doctor straight away.

A melanoma is likely to have a similar appearance to a mole. Unlike a mole, however, a melanoma will usually grow larger and become more irregular in shape and colour.

What should I look for?

The ABCDE rule is a useful guide for detecting potentially dangerous moles on your skin.

Asymmetry—moles that, if divided in half are not the same on both sides.

Border—moles with edges that are jagged like a coastline.

Colour—moles gaining or losing colour, or that have multiple colours.

Diameter—moles more than 0.5cm in diameter (especially if
unevenly coloured).

Evolution—moles that have changed size, shape, colour or
height.

If you are at all concerned about any mole or spot, or notice any of the above get your doctor to look at it as soon as possible.