The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer
A sunburn can increase the number of moles on your body. While moles are common, they can become cancerous. Keep an eye on your moles with the “ABCDE” rule and talk with a health care provider if you notice anything abnormal.
A
Asymmetry – One half
is unlike the other half.
is unlike the other half.
B
Border – An irregular, scalloped
or poorly defined border.
or poorly defined border.
C
Color – Is varied from one area to another,
has shades of tan, brown or black, or
is sometimes white, red or blue.
has shades of tan, brown or black, or
is sometimes white, red or blue.
D
Diameter – Melanomas are usually greater
than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
E
Evolving – A mole or skin lesion
that looks different from the rest or is
changing in size, shape or color.
that looks different from the rest or is
changing in size, shape or color.
