Melanoma is one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer. Since people typically do not know the warning signs of melanoma, many skin cancer cases advance leaving patients with limited options for treatment.
Moles are often the very first warning signs of melanoma by use of the ABCDE model to detect it. The ABCDEs of melanoma stand for - asymmetry, borders, color, diameter and evolution.
Asymmetrical moles with uneven borders tend to be malignant and an early warning sign of melanoma. If moles come in a variety of colors such as brown, tan, black, red white and blue, this may also mean skin cancer.
While they appear smaller when first detected, malignant moles are also larger in diameter at about one-fourth an inch. When moles change in size, shape, color or start to itch, this may be an early warning sign of skin cancer.
However, a new study has suggested that the ABCDE of skin cancer must be replaced with ABCDEFG with F that stands for firm and G meaning growth. Moles that are firm to the touch or are growing are not normal and should be checked out, Prevention cited.
In some cases, moles that ooze out a substance or bleed out may be a sign of a cancerous mole. While most moles in the body are harmless, any noticeable changes can be signs of skin cancer.
Other warning signs of melanoma include skin sores that appear for no apparent reason and nail discoloration such as brown and black spots that form beneath the nails. Bruises and sores that also take longer to heal may also be an early warning sign of melanoma skin cancer.
Women under the age of 40 have a higher risk for developing melanoma while men over 40 have a higher risk. Caucasian with blonde or red hair, pale skin and freckles are said to be at a higher risk for melanoma since they lack the natural protection in their skin, according to Natural News.
Women who love tanning and artificial tanning are at the highest risk for melanoma since exposure to ultraviolet light can lead to changes in DNA skin cells that can lead to cancer. People who are exposed to outdoor jobs such as construction or farming also pose to be at a high risk.
