Skin cancer, the abnormal growth of skin cells, is the most common type of cancer. There are three major types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by limiting or avoiding exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Checking your skin for suspicious changes can help detect skin cancer at its earliest stages.
Examine your skin with a mirror or another person’s help. Look for unusual moles, spots, or bumps. Pay special attention to areas that get a lot of sun exposure, including the hands, arms, chest, neck, face and ears.
Call your doctor if you notice any of the following changes to moles, spots or bumps:
- Asymmetric shape;
- Border irregularity;
- Changes in colour;
- Changes in diameter;
- Scariness, oozing, bleeding, or spreading of the pigment into surrounding skin;
- Itching or tenderness;
- Unusual skin growths or changes.