Learn How to Check Yourself for Skin Cancer Signs with this easy-to-follow guide. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

How to Check Yourself for Skin Cancer Signs

Skin cancer is a prevalent disease, but early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Regularly checking your skin for unusual moles, spots, or changes is crucial. This guide will walk you through the process of performing a self-examination for skin cancer.

Why Self-Exams Are Important

Self-exams empower you to become familiar with your skin and notice any potential problems early on. They don’t replace professional checks by a dermatologist, but they are a vital supplementary tool. By regularly monitoring your skin, you’re more likely to identify new or changing lesions that warrant further investigation.

What You’ll Need

You won’t need much to perform a thorough skin self-exam. The essentials include:

• A full-length mirror.
• A hand-held mirror.
• Good lighting (natural light is best).
• A chair or stool.
• A body map (optional, but useful for recording findings).

Performing the Skin Self-Exam: The ABCDE Method

The ABCDE method is a helpful guide for evaluating moles and spots for potential signs of melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Remember, not all skin cancers follow this rule, but it’s a great starting point.

• A is for Asymmetry: Does the mole have an irregular shape, where one half doesn’t match the other?
• B is for Border: Are the edges of the mole blurred, ragged, notched, or poorly defined?
• C is for Colour: Is the mole unevenly coloured, with shades of black, brown, tan, red, white, or blue?
• D is for Diameter: Is the mole larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)? While smaller melanomas exist, larger sizes are more concerning.
• E is for Evolving: Has the mole changed in size, shape, colour, or elevation? Are there any new symptoms, such as bleeding, itching, or crusting?

If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult a doctor.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Full Body Check

Follow these steps to ensure you examine every part of your body:

1. Face and Scalp: Start by examining your face, including your nose, lips, and ears. Use a mirror to check your scalp. Part your hair in sections and carefully look for any moles or spots. Consider asking a friend or family member to help you examine the back of your scalp.

2. Neck and Chest: Thoroughly examine your neck and chest, both front and back.

3. Arms and Hands: Check the front and back of your arms, including your underarms (armpits). Don’t forget to examine your palms and the spaces between your fingers.

4. Torso: Examine your abdomen and back. Use the hand-held mirror to see your upper back and shoulders.

5. Legs and Feet: Check the front, back, and sides of your legs and feet. Examine the soles of your feet, your toes, and the spaces between your toes. Use a mirror to check the backs of your legs and thighs.

6. Genitals: Examine your genital area. While skin cancer is less common in this area, it can still occur.

What to Look For Besides ABCDE

Besides the ABCDEs, be on the lookout for:

• New moles or growths: Any new spot on your skin, especially if it looks different from your other moles.
• Sores that don’t heal: A sore, ulcer, or area of skin that fails to heal within a few weeks.
• Any changes in skin sensation: This could include itching, tenderness, or pain.
• Unusual bleeding or crusting: Any mole or spot that bleeds easily or develops a crust.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you have any concerns about your skin, it is crucial to see a doctor or dermatologist. A professional skin examination can help diagnose skin cancer early, when it is most treatable. People with a family history of skin cancer, fair skin, or a history of excessive sun exposure should be particularly vigilant about regular self-exams and professional screenings.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I check myself for skin cancer?

A: Ideally, you should perform a skin self-exam once a month.

Q: What if I find something that worries me?

A: See your doctor or a dermatologist as soon as possible for a professional evaluation.

Q: Can I check my skin if I have lots of moles?

A: Yes, it’s even more important! Familiarise yourself with your usual moles so you can identify any new or changing ones.

external_links:

• https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/melanoma-skin-cancer/ – NHS information on melanoma skin cancer.
• https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer – Cancer Research UK’s guide to skin cancer.