Like other forms of cancer, skin cancer is a deadly disease. It is essential to diagnose the disease in the initial stage to provide appropriate treatment. Skin cancer can be easily identified by careful examination of the changes seen in the skin. However, confirmation of skin cancer is done only after performing specific tests. Here are five important signs that signal skin cancer.

The characteristic changes seen in the moles serve as perfect indication for skin cancer. Any change in the symmetry, border, color, diameter and elevation of the moles is a sign for skin cancer. Bleeding skin wounds that do not heal for a very long term also serve as indication for skin cancer. The following is a discussion on each of the five signs of skin cancer.

• Change in symmetry. Normally, the moles that you see on a healthy skin are symmetrical. For example, if you divide them into exactly half; each half of the mole resembles the other half. But in case of skin cancer the moles are irregular in symmetry and each half of the mole does not bear any resemblance to the other half.

• Change in border. A normal or a benign mole contains smooth borders. In case of skin problems such as cancer, the moles bear irregular borders that are uneven and may even not be seen properly.

• Change in color of mole. Any color of the mole that is different from the regular brown color should be given importance. A regular mole will be in one shade or color, but a problematic mole will have shades of black or brown and even red or blue lines may be seen as the problem progresses.

• Diameter of the mole. A mole generally has a diameter of 6mm. If a mole is very large or very small than this diameter then it has to be given enough care. However, a mole that continues to grow has to be given more importance.

• Elevation. One last sign of skin cancer that needs concern is the elevation of the mole. A mole is generally in the same level as that of the skin. If a mole is found to be elevated with irregular surface then it should be checked for cancer. Cancerous moles generally increase in height very rapidly.

Apart from the above regular symptoms, if you are suffering from skin wounds that do not heal for a very long time and are oozing blood then you can suspect of skin cancer.

If you observe any of the above signs in your skin and from the above discussion, you are unable to judge your skin problem appropriately; it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist as early as possible. If you are suspected having a skin cancer, it will be treated by eliminating the affected portion of the skin. Sometimes even the surrounding tissue may be removed. However, it is essential to take appropriate skin protection measures to avoid development of skin cancer. Some of the measures to be taken include protection of harmful UV rays of the sun; avoid excess use of cosmetics with harmful chemicals, and just use of homemade skin products.

Jonathan Pitts

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