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The ABCDEs of Skin Health

May is National Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of skin health—especially as the weather gets nicer and more time is spent outdoors. According to the CDC, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The most common warning sign is a change in your skin, such as a new growth, a sore that won’t heal, or a change in a mole. Since not all skin cancers look the same, it’s essential to stay vigilant.

For melanoma specifically, an easy way to remember the warning signs is the A-B-C-D-Es:

A Asymmetry: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two distinct halves?
B Border: Is the border uneven, irregular, or jagged?
C Color: Is the color inconsistent or varied?
D Diameter: Is it larger than a pea?
E Evolving: Has it changed in size, shape, or color over the past few weeks or months?

If you notice any changes in your skin, including new or changing growths, sores that won’t heal, or any of the A-B-CD-Es of melanoma, schedule an appointment with your physician or dermatologist. Early detection can make all the difference.

Source: cdc.gov