A mole is a natural occurrence on the skin, and it is vital to be aware of the different types of moles and what each one means. Moles can be dark or light, raised or flat, and vary in size. Due to the increased awareness of skin cancer, specialists in Glen Allen, Virginia, are proactive in identifying cancer early in society. Most people have between 10-40 moles on their skin. While most moles are benign (not cancerous), it is crucial to be aware of the signs of skin cancer. Which are the common signs a specialist in skin cancer in Glen Allen will focus on?
A Changing Mole
If a mole starts to change in size, shape, or color, it could signify skin cancer. Benign moles usually stay the same over time, but cancerous moles can change quickly. If you have a mole changing, it is crucial to see a doctor right away.
If you have a large, brownish spot with darker speckles, it could signify skin cancer. Usually, the mole will increase in size over a short period. This type of mole is also called an “ABCD” or an “Asymmetrical, Borders that are irregular, Color that is not uniform, and Diameter greater than 6 millimeters.”
Itchy Mole
Itchy moles could be a sign of skin cancer. Benign moles usually aren’t itchy, but cancerous moles can be. If you have an itchy mole, see a doctor right away. There are a few reasons why they can become painful. Moles can be scratchy if they are infected or overgrowing.
Sudden Appearance of a Mole
If you suddenly start to develop moles, it could signify skin cancer. Most people don’t develop new moles after 20, so it could be a sign of cancer if you start to have them after that age. See a doctor right away if you begin to develop new moles.
It can be a flat lesion with a scaly and crusted surface. This type of mole is also called an “ulcerated melanoma.” It usually starts as a flat lesion and then develops a scaly, crusted surface. If you have this type of mole, seek medical attention.
Skin Cancer Risk Factors
Excessive Sun ExposurePeople who have excessive sun exposure are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, it is paramount to wear sunscreen and cover up as much as possible. People who have had severe sunburns are also at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
Family History
People who have a family history of skin cancer are at a higher risk of developing the disease. If you have a family history of skin cancer, it is crucial to see a doctor regularly and be aware of the signs of the disease.
A Weakened Immune System
People with a weakened immune system are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. This includes people who have HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, and have had an organ transplant. If you have a weakened immune system, it is crucial to see a doctor regularly and be aware of skin cancer signs.
The signs of skin cancer are, typically, a mole changing in size, shape, or color. If you have any of these changes happening to the moles on your skin, it is essential to see a doctor right away. It increases the chances of the treatment’s success.