Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. It is estimated that 1 million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year in the U.S. alone. If detected early enough, you can effectively fight skin cancer. Detecting the signs of skin cancer is key.
Instructions
1. In front of a full-length mirror, examine your body from head to toe, front and back. Use a small hand-held mirror to help you search the ares that are harder to see. Make sure to check your scalp, between fingers and toes and the bottoms of your feet. You may need the assistance of someone to examine certain areas of your body.
2. Know the different types of cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer: basil cell, squamous cell and malignant melanoma. Basil cell is the most common and occurs in areas that get the most sun exposure. It is the least severe, grows fairly slowly and rarely spreads. Squamous cell is more severe and can spread to vital organs. Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It spreads quickly.
3. Know what you are looking for. Size matters, if your mole is the size of a pencil eraser or larger. The color is important also. Check if the mole has different colors, such as black, red, blue or white specks. You should also check for ragged or irregular edges.
4. Look for warning signs--sores that don’t heal after 2 to 3 months, bleeding, itching, tenderness, redness or swelling, and scaly moles.
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