Understanding New Moles: Recognizing Potential Skin Cancer Risks

When to worry about new moles

Most moles are benign, or non-cancerous. However, it is important to be aware of the changes in your moles that could indicate skin cancer.

See a doctor if you notice any of the following changes in a mole:

* Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.

* Border: The border of the mole is irregular, scalloped, or notched.

* Color: The mole is not the same color throughout. It may be brown, black, tan, or red.

* Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).

* Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

It is also important to see a doctor if you have a new mole that:

* Appears suddenly

* Is itchy, bleeding, or painful

* Is located in an area that is frequently irritated

What the doctor will do

If the doctor is concerned about a mole, they may perform a biopsy. This involves removing a small piece of the mole and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.

The biopsy results will determine if the mole is cancerous. If the mole is cancerous, the doctor will recommend the best course of treatment.

Preventing skin cancer

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds. You can do this by:

* Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher

* Wearing protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses

* Seeking shade during the peak hours of sunlight (10 am to 4 pm)

* Avoiding tanning beds

Getting regular skin exams

It is also important to get regular skin exams from a doctor or dermatologist. This can help to catch skin cancer early, when it is most treatable.