Can a mole change color and not be cancer? Why the sudden change in color or shape? Check it out and see whether you need medical attention!
The mole is a small area of the skin, usually circular in shape, which is slightly darkened as a result of a cluster of pigmented cells (called nevus or melanocytes).
Can a mole change color and not be cancer?
Although most of them are benign, it is necessary to be alert if there is a cancerous one. Can a mole change color and not be cancer?
Actually, when they are small, you have them since birth or since you were a child and have a regular shape and color, there is usually no reason to worry.
However, when new moles appear in adults, or they change color or have some particular characteristics, it is necessary to be attentive and to review them as a precaution to avoid some serious illness such as skin cancer.
The numbers of deaths from melanoma (a type of cancer that can spread to the organs) are alarming, because every 54min someone dies because of this disease. Being aware of your moles and learning to recognize the signs can save your life.
Why can moles be dangerous?
86% of cases of melanoma are caused by ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun and have been rising since the 1990s. If detected early, there may be an 80-90% chance of survival.
How do I know if I have skin cancer?
The first sign of melanoma is any change in the moles or the appearance of a new one.
What should I pay attention to?
Here are the warning signs to detect a dangerous mole:
- The mole is new
- Changed color, shape or size
- It has irregular edges
- Looks different from other skin moles
- It is asymmetrical (its halves are different)
- Its color is not uniform (it has black, brown, pink, red, blue or white spots or shadows)
- It measures more than 6 millimeters (it is bigger than the eraser of a pencil)
- Grow or evolve
You can take a picture of the mole you think is changing and after a while take another to compare them.
Furthermore, you should all get a skin check, especially when you have many moles. It should also be done if there is a history of cancer in the family or if you have been exposed to too much in the sun.
How can I reduce the risk of developing melanoma in the future?
The easiest way is to always use sunscreen with an SPF30.
Anyone who spends significant lapses in the sun should make sure to protect their skin with clothing, blocker, lenses and cap.
Further info: Which Are Moles That Can Develop Into Malignant Melanoma And Which Are Benign?
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