By regularly checking your skin for any changes in moles, freckles, or other skin abnormalities, you can catch potential signs of skin cancer at an early stage. Early detection is key in successfully treating skin cancer, as it allows for more treatment options and a higher chance of survival.

Performing a skin cancer self-check is a simple process that can be done at home: 

1. Start by examining your entire body in a well-lit room using a full-length mirror.
2. Take note of any moles, freckles, or other marks on your skin, paying close attention to any changes in size, shape, colour, or texture.
3. Use a hand-held mirror to check hard-to-see areas such as your back, scalp, and the soles of your feet. It’s also important to check under your arms, between your fingers and toes, and underneath your nails. 

Source: https://www.cancer.org.au

ABCDE Melanoma Detection Rule

The ABCDE rule is a helpful guide for evaluating moles and determining if they may be indicative of skin cancer. The acronym stands for:

Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half. 

Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are ragged, notched, or blurred.

Colour variation: The mole has different colours or shades, such as brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue.

Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimetres (about the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can be smaller. 

Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or colour over time.

Download the skin cancer identification guide. 
(Source: https://www.cancer.org.au)

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer 

Skin cancer can present itself in various forms, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms. The most common types of skin cancer are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma often appears as a pearly or waxy bump,
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma may appear as a red, scaly patch or a sore that doesn’t heal.
• Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and may appear as a new spot on the skin or a change in an existing mole. 

Other signs and symptoms of skin cancer may include itching, tenderness, or pain in a specific area of the skin. Some individuals may also experience bleeding or oozing from a mole or mark on their skin. If any of these warning signs are present, seek medical attention for further evaluation.

It is important to regularly check moles and be aware of any new or changing growths on the skin in order to catch potential skin cancer early. Early detection is key in successfully treating skin cancer, so it’s important to be proactive about monitoring your own skin by firstly understanding the importance of applying suncreen and checking for any potential warning signs. In addition to regular self-examinations. Additionally, it is recommended to have a yearly skin check by a health professional, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or have had previous skin cancer.