Skin Cancer and Family History: When to Be Extra Vigilant
Genetics raise the stakes, so here's your action plan.
Having more than five sunburns doubles melanoma risk; one blistering childhood burn more than doubles lifetime risk.
Caught early and localized, melanoma has a 5-year relative survival rate near 100% (SEER).
Frequently asked questions
What does the ABCDE mole rule mean?
ABCDE is a checklist for spotting possible melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than about 6 mm (a pencil eraser), and Evolving size, shape or color. Any mole meeting these — or simply changing — warrants a dermatologist's evaluation.
What are the early warning signs of melanoma?
Watch for the ABCDEs: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, uneven Color, Diameter over about 6 mm, and Evolving (changing) spots. Also note any 'ugly duckling' mole that looks different from your others, or a sore that won't heal. See a dermatologist promptly about anything new or changing.
How often should I get a skin check?
Examine your own skin about monthly, and see a dermatologist for a professional check at least yearly — more often if you have many moles, fair skin, a history of sunburns or skin cancer, or a family history. Early detection makes melanoma highly treatable.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'When should I see a dermatologist about a changing mole?'
Sources & citations
- AIM at Melanoma Foundation, sunburn risk data
- aimatmelanoma.org ↗