The ABCDE is a strategy designed to help people determine if a mole is cancerous; with this method, you can learn how to recognize a melanoma at an early stage. During the last decade, an increase of 47% of melanoma was reported, most of them being caused by exposure to UV light from the sun hence the importance of using daily SPF; this can reduce up to 50% your chances of developing melanoma.
Having more than five sunburns during your childhood or early adulthood double your chances of getting melanoma. Also, people that use a tanning bed before their 30’s increase the risk of having melanoma by 75%.
Some characteristics of benign moles are
As a person grows older and is exposed to sunlight, the skin changes in response to this exposure. Most people have some skin marks, such as freckles and moles, which may multiply or darken over time. Benign means they are not cancerous.
- They can grow during pregnancy or puberty
- Can be acquired or congenital
- It’s normal to have between 20-25 in total
- They shouldn’t cause pain or itchiness
- The usual shape is oval with a smooth edge
- Size is less than 6mm in diameter
Check the ABCDE’s to learn the most common indicators of melanoma
- Asymmetry: When half of the mole does not match the other half
- Border: moles with an irregular border or with pigment extension over the skin, melanomas usually have notched borders
- Color: having three or more colors can indicate a melanoma, for example, moles with colors like black and light and dark brown
- Diameter: if the mole is over 6mm, it is considered suspicious
- Evolution: if you notice changes in the overall look of the mole
If you noticed one of the signs we just described, make sure you go for a consultation with a dermatologist; based on your characteristics, individual recommendations will be made based on your type of skin, risk factors, family history, and previous sun exposure.
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