Cancerous mole(melanoma)
Most moles are benign. Suspect a cancerous mole if the mole has undergone the following changes or if you notice a new mole with the following changes
- Asymmetry between the two halves
- Borders are jagged and not smooth
- Colour change from brown to red or purple or multicolour or uneven shades of brown
- Diameter of 6mm or more or a sudden increase in size
- Evolution where there is continuous change in appearance over time
Cancerous mole must be removed and sent for histology. Melanoma is curable if detected early, having a 5-year survival rate of up to 99%.
Factors contributing to melanoma
- Repeated sun exposure with sunburn
- Repeated exposure to tanning beds
- High number of moles or unusual moles
- Family history of melanoma
If you or your family have a history of melanoma, schedule a regular skin check with Dr Joyce Lim, a dermatologist, to detect early changes in your moles and to detect any new skin cancers