Knowing Your Moles is as Easy as ... ABCDE

Moles, along with brown spots and growths are common and usually harmless, but there are important warning signs that should not be ignored. Family history, increased sun exposure, skin type and those with more than 100 moles are at increased risk for melanoma. Take note of any atypical qualities in your moles, as these could be an indication of cancerous activity. That's why it's so important to get to know your skin and to recognize any changes on a month-to-month basis.

ASYMMETRY:

The shape of one half does not match the other half

BORDER:

Uneven, blurred, ragged borders

COLOR:

Shades of uneven coloring or different colors in the same mole (red, blue, white, black, brown)

DIAMETER:

A change in size. Generally melanomas are larger than a pencil eraser (6mm)

EVOLUTION:

The mole has grown and changed in shape, color or size

Check your moles monthly and consult your physician if you have a mole that fits any of these criteria.

*Images courtesy of Skin Cancer Foundation