When to check a mole for skin cancer?
1 in 5 people in the UK will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, so it’s important to know if you have a higher risk. Here’s Dr Rallan’s guide:
Are you over 50?
The first question we ask “what age are you? If you are over 50, your chances of developing a skin cancer begins to increase. The risk is lower for childhood or younger adults.
Is the mole new?
It’s normal for children, teenagers and young adults to get new moles. However, from your mid 40s, the number of new moles declines significantly.
If you are over 45 and a new mole develops, this could be suspicious and it is worth asking us to check it for you.
Has the mole changed?
If your mole changes quickly over a few weeks, by becoming asymmetrical, if the border has become jagged, if you spot more than one colour in the mole, especially black, and it has increased in size, you need to get it checked out.
The majority of people will develop melanoma on normal looking skin, so if you’re over 50, have a new mole, it has changed shape, size and colour, you need to get it checked. Early detection of skin cancer is crucial in being able to cure the condition.
I visited the clinic for a routine mole check and was very pleases with the treatment I received. Dr Rallan and his nurse were very thorough and explained everything fully. I will definitely visit the clinic on an annual basis to have my moles checked and would recommend this service to other people!
I have a considerable number of moles and blemishes. The consultation reassured me that none give cause for concern. I am now more aware of the likely appearance of suspect moles.
I could not have wished for better attention. How lucky we are to have such a facility to be able to receive quick and efficient treatment.Everything 1st Class, you will see me again in the future no doubt!