Early Signs of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore
Most of us have moles, freckles, and skin marks. While most are harmless, some changes can signal melanoma or other forms of skin cancer. The good news? When caught early, treatment is usually very effective. Awareness, self-checks, and regular dermatologist visits are the best tools for peace of mind.
Melanoma begins in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. It is less common than basal or squamous cell carcinoma but far more dangerous if it spreads. Each year, more than 100,000 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. The survival rate is over 99% if caught early, underscoring the importance of paying attention.
Dermatologists use the ABCDE guide to evaluate moles: