Do you know the ABCDE's ? How often do you inspect?

United States
June 10, 2007 5:44pm CST
Do you know the warning signs for melanoma skin cancer? They are as simple as ABCD! A: Assymetry. An imaginary line drawn through the mole will not result in symmetrical halves B. Border. Melanoma borders tend to be uneven with scalloped or notched edges. C. Color. Having a variety of colors. A melanoma can be blue, black, tan, or red in various shades. D. Diameter. Usually a melanoma will be the size of a pencil eraser or larger, although they can be smaller if detected early. E. Evolving. Any change in characteristics of a mole. A mole that begins to itch, bleed, crust, increase in size or shape. Besides a yearly inspection by a physcian, one should check their skin monthly. Many people forget to inspect their scalp. It should be checked using a blo-dryer to displace hair. Use a hand mirror in front of a full length mirror to inspect the back of the body! Do you check your skin monthly?
1 person likes this
4 responses
@PunkyMcPunk (1477)
• Canada
10 Jun 07
Thank you for this information. I am a bit concerned about a mole I have on the side of my neck. It is bumping and about the size of half of an eraser (pencil top eraser). It is multi coloured but doesn't itch or anything. Although occasionally it really hurts. It is very very sensitive to touch and I hate to get it caught on anything because it hurts BADLY! My grandmother had cancer in the exact same mole in the exact same palce that I have mine in but she was older. I am only 26 years old and while I keep an eye on it my doctor hasn't said anything about being concerned about it.
2 people like this
• United States
10 Jun 07
Punky, be sure to tell your doctor about your family history and the fact that the mole is sometimes painful. Those are important things he/she needs to know. Also, be aware that you can see a dermatologist and request that it be taken off, just to ease your mind! (especially given the fact that is often hurts and gets caught on things!!!)
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Jun 07
I knew most of them but what an excellent way to remember them. Thanks for sharing.
1 person likes this
11 Jun 07
Nope.. I don't check my skin. The only time is when I cut myself or I notice something wrong. (I do wonder why I have orange hands though) ~Joey
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@Modestah (11177)
• United States
13 Jun 07
thank-you for posting this. It sounds a simple enough thing to keep track of....but the scalp? now that would be difficult when you have a LOT of thick course hair. I reckon it is also a good reminder to wear a headcover, I am thinking sunscreen does not spread too well over the scalp unless one is bald/ing