Skin Cancer - How to Tell Normal Moles From Cancerous Moles

During the lifetime of a mole, it may tend to change slightly in appearance as its owner ages; however, these changes should not be sudden and dramatic. It is important for those who bear moles to know exactly what these changes can mean, and how to spot the difference between a normal healthy mole and an unhealthy abnormal one.

Moles can grow on any part of the body, although they are more commonly associated with being either on the face or the neck, which because of their position they tend to be more exposed to the harmful rays of the sun than those which grow on other parts of the body, and therefore are more susceptible to changes and become cancerous.

However, there are certain signs that proud owners can look-out for when these changes happen, so as to be sure their moles are always worn in tip-top condition.

These changes may include

1. Colour Changes - Healthy moles tend to be small, symmetrical, and of one colour throughout (usually brown), where as unhealthy ones tend to be multi-coloured. When a mole has more than one colour to it, for example: black and brown, and the colour change is recent, it is worth getting it checked out.

2. Shape - Moles can be of any shape, although most of them tend to be round and symmetrical and show more form to them than unhealthy ones, which may become asymmetrical with sudden growth.

3. Raised Moles - Most moles tend to be flat; however, if a mole is raised and becomes a source of irritation when either touched or knocked, it may be that it has become cancerous.

4. Mole Edges - Usually healthy moles tend to have clean-cut edges to them, and not ragged edges that can indicate the possibility of cancer.

5. Skin Complexion - A fair-skinned complexion can be more susceptible to skin cancer and mole changes than that of a darker skinned complexion, which is another reason fair-skinned people should take more care to protect themselves and their moles.

6. Mole Groupings - Many moles in one place, may mean that there is more of a risk from cancerous mole changes than when they are more spaced-out.

7. Regular Checking - By regularly checking moles, any changes to shape or colour will be easily noticed. Not just the more prominent moles that the bearer is usually more proud of, but to those that are on other parts of the body too.

Philip was born in the United Kingdom. Today he works as a freelance writer in Mexico, where he spends much of his time researching and writing about health related issues. If you feel that you have benefited from reading one of his articles: please recommend them to others who may also benefit. Thank you for reading Philip's articles!