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Identifying a suspicious mole with potential to cause melanoma/skin cancer, early is very crucial, as it can spread within weeks and may turn life threatening.

• Be familiar with how your skin appears. It will help you identify any change or suspicious mole that can cause skin cancer.

• Examine the surface of your skin intermittently so that you can approach your doctor in case of any change or suspicion.

• Performing regular self examination of skin will be greatly helpful.

• Self examination should cover entire skin surface with the assistance of good light, mirrors. If required you may take someone’s help.

• In case you notice any moles or spots with unusual feature or changing, visit a doctor immediately. Unusual features include irregular border, asymmetrical shape, blotchy color, or increasing diameter.

• In case you find a new mole or freckle on your child’s skin that is pink or red or has a uniform color and if it is raised from the skin or bumpy, get it checked by the doctor.

Have your skin checked by a doctor once in six months, if you have a high risk of melanoma. The risk of melanoma increases if you work more in the sun or previously had skin cancer.

-Sumana