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The ABCD rule is a convenient guide to the usual signs of melanoma. Be on the look out and notify your doctor about any of the following changes to a mole or birthmark:
- A is for ASYMMETRY: One-half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.
- B is for BORDER: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- C is for COLOR The color is not the same all over, but may have differing shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of red, white, or blue.
- D is for DIAMETER: The area is larger than 6 millimeters (about ¼ inch -- the size of a pencil eraser) or is growing larger.
The most important warning sign for skin cancer is a spot on the skin that is changing in size, shape, or color over a period of one month to one or two years.
Monthly Skin Checks Are Best
It's a good idea to check your entire body each month, so you are familiar with the normal pattern of moles, birthmarks and blemishes. That way a change would be more noticeable.
Self-examination is best done in front of a full-length mirror. A hand-held mirror can be used for areas that are hard to see.
A spouse or other partner may be able to help you, especially for those hard-to-see areas, like the lower back or the back of your thighs. All areas should be examined, including the palms and soles, the lower back, and the back of the legs. Be sure to talk to a doctor about any questionable areas of your skin.
And Watch Your Back
About one of every three serious skin cancers in men – called melanomas – are found on the back. If you have trouble examining this area yourself, ask friends or family members to do it for you.
The American Cancer Society recommends a cancer-related checkup, including a skin examination, every three years for people between 20 and 40 years of age, and every year for anyone age 40 and older.
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