5 signs that a birthmark should be shown to the doctor

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Melanoma can be easily eliminated without consequences if a suspicious mole is noticed in time. Inspection will only take a few minutes if you know what to look for.

Melanoma is the third most common and most dangerous type of skin cancer. Fortunately, in the early stages, it responds well to treatment and manifests itself in the form of signs noticeable to the eye: moles, spots and other marks on the skin. Of course, not every mole is a threat. Here are some simple rules to help you spot potentially dangerous changes in time.

What to look for when examining moles

1. Asymmetry … If one half of the mole is very different from the other, the spot may be malignant.
2. A clear border … A blurred outline of a mole may be a sign of melanoma.
3. Colour … Check the mole with a doctor if it is too dark or irregular in color.
4. Diameter … Moles larger than the diameter of the pencil should be shown to the doctor. It is fair to say that melanoma can be smaller.
5. Changes … If the mole has changed in size, shape or color, it needs to be checked.

On the left are examples of what melanoma might look like, and on the right are healthy moles:

If you have any of these signs, or if you are not sure if any of your moles are dangerous, see a dermatologist. He will be able to more accurately determine if you need additional testing. Don't try to diagnose yourself or jump to conclusions.

How to reduce your risk of developing melanoma

The main thing you can do is control the condition of your skin. Particular attention should be paid to newly appeared and changed moles. Ask a loved one to inspect moles where it is inconvenient for you to do it yourself. So, a third of all cases of melanoma in men are recorded on the back.

The main cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of melanoma, especially in people with fair skin that burns easily. However, swarthy ones are not protected from the harmful effects of sunlight.

Early diagnosis plays a key role in the treatment of skin cancer, as it helps prevent the spread of the tumor. If a malignant mole is removed early, the chances of survival increase up to 98%.