When you should be concerned about your moles
As Australians, we have to be particularly aware of the sun’s effects on our skin. According to Cancer.org.au, as many as two in every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they reach the age of 70. Additionally, the Australian incidence of skin cancer has raised a shocking 60 per cent from 1982 to 2010.
With statistics like that, it’s hard to ignore the danger of skin cancer, but how do you know when it’s just a mole, or something more?
There are three types of moles:
Congenital moles – These are the type of moles you’re born with but may be risk of becoming cancerous later in life.
Acquired moles – As the name would suggest, these moles develop post-birth, during childhood and early adulthood. Smaller than half a centimetre, these are thought to develop as a result of sun exposure, though they do not generally turn malignant.
Atypical moles – These are the moles with which you should be most concerned. Atypical moles are generally larger than the eraser of a pencil and have an irregular shape and uneven colouring.
If you suspect that you have atypical moles, it’s recommended that you have your doctor check them out annually in order to rule out cancer. Look for these signs that your mole may be a health risk:
- New moles that develop in adulthood
- Asymmetry in size or colour
- Irregular border or undefined edges
- A large diameter, larger than the eraser of a pencil
- Change in shape, size or colour
If you have a mole that fits these descriptions, make an appointment to see your GP, because you’re always better safe than sorry.
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