"Skin cancer is the most common cancer in South Africa. Finding skin cancer early saves lives, so it is very important to know the signs," says Minette van Zyl, regional manager.
Skin cancer often first appears as a change in a mole or a patch of normal skin. If you notice a change that happens over weeks or months you should act without delay. Most changes are not caused by cancer, but do need to be checked out by a doctor.
The most serious type of skin cancer is called malignant melanoma. Other types of skin cancer are called non-melanoma. Non-melanomas are by far the most common skin cancers.
What causes skin cancer?
The main cause of skin cancer is too much sun. Sunburn can double the risk of skin cancer.
Where can skin cancer start?
The most common sites are the legs in women, the back in men and the face in older people. But a melanoma can grow anywhere, even on the sole of the foot.
What are the signs?
You may have some moles or dark patches on your skin that are flat or slightly raised. Usually these will remain harmless all your life. Show your doctor any moles or patches of normal skin that change in size, shape or colour over weeks or months.
Check your skin regularly for changes. This is especially important if you are fair skinned with lots of moles or freckles.
The ABCD rule
- If you notice any of the ABCD signs, see yourdoctor without delay.
- Asymmetry: The two halves of a melanoma may not look the same.
- Border: The edges of a melanoma may be irregular, blurred or jagged.
- Colour: The colour of a melanoma may be uneven, with more than one shade.
- Diameter: Many melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter, the size of a pencil eraser.
Melanoma and some other skin cancers will spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
For more information, visit www.cansa.org.za or phone 020 7121 6699.
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