Skin cancer, sun awareness and skin surgery

Skin Lesions

When should I contact my doctor about a mole?

The first sign of a melanoma is often a new mole or a change in the appearance of an existing mole.

Normal moles are usually round or oval, with a smooth edge, and no bigger than 6mm (1/4 inch) in diameter.

See your GP as soon as possible if you notice changes in a mole, freckle or patch of skin, especially if the changes happen over a few weeks or months.

Signs to look out for include a mole that is:

getting bigger
changing shape
changing colour
bleeding or becoming crusty
itchy or painful

When should I see my doctor about a pink growth on my skin?

The main symptom of non-melanoma skin cancer is the appearance of a lump or discoloured patch on the skin that doesn’t heal.

The lump or discoloured patch is the cancer, sometimes referred to as a tumour.

Non-melanoma skin cancer most often appears on areas of skin which are regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, hands and shoulders.If you develop a lump, lesion or skin discolouration that hasn’t healed after 4 weeks, see your GP. While it is unlikely to be cancer, it is best to be sure.

N.B. Your risk of skin cancer is increased by:
Excessive sun exposure/ sun burn especially in childhood – so take extra care
Use of sun beds – Please avoid and learn to love the natural colour of your skin
Being immunosuppressed
Having a family history of skin cancer