Final answer:
The American Cancer Society recommends the ABCDE mnemonic for recognizing potential skin cancer: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolving. Melanoma can arise from normal skin or an existing mole, making early detection vital. Regular self-examinations and dermatologist checks, especially for those at risk, are essential for early intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Cancer Society has established a checklist to help identify potential skin cancer or changes in moles. The checklist is encompassed by the mnemonic ABCDE:
- Asymmetry - A mole that has two sides that do not match indicates asymmetry.
- Border irregularity - A mole with edges that are notched, uneven, or irregular suggests border irregularity.
- Color variation - Moles that have different shades of brown or black, or even other colors, indicate color variation.
- Diameter - If a mole is larger than 6 mm (0.24 in), it is noteworthy.
- Evolving - Any change in the mole's shape, size, or texture could be significant.
Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can develop in normal skin or an existing mole that turns cancerous. With early detection being crucial for effective treatment, anyone with risk factors for skin cancer, such as a family history, should perform regular self-checks and consider annual dermatologist visits.