The ABCDEs of Moles

Melanoma - a type of skin cancer - is one of the deadliest cancers, and it can be prevented or at least caught early. People most at risk of developing this type of skin cancer are those with fair skin, those who have a lot of moles, a family history of melanoma, living at the equator or a higher elevation, exposure to UV light (including tanning beds), and a history of sunburn. Wearing sunscreen can help prevent UV exposure and sunburns - so always wear it. If you tend to have a lot of moles, then it's important to examine them often, especially if they're an unusual, large type called dysplastic nevi. These are larger than 5 millimeters in diameter and vary in color and border. As you look at moles, keep in mind the ABCDEs of examining them. A stands for asymmetry - is the mole round and equal in size on all edges?