What is a suspicious-looking mole?

A suspicious-looking mole is typically an irregularly shaped, discoloured, or changing mole that may indicate potential skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colours, a diameter larger than 6mm, or any change in size, shape, or colour.

How can I identify a suspicious mole?

To identify a suspicious mole, use the ABCDE rule: Asymmetry: One half is different from the other. Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges. Colour: Varied shades of brown, black, or other colours. Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser). Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or colour over time.

Should I be worried about a new mole?

While many new moles are harmless, any new mole that appears after the age of 30 or changes in appearance should be evaluated by a dermatologist. It’s essential to monitor for any signs of suspicious characteristics.

What should I do if I find a suspicious-looking mole?

If you find a suspicious mole, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. They may perform a thorough skin examination and, if necessary, a biopsy to determine if the mole is cancerous.

How often should I check my moles for changes?

It’s a good practice to perform a self-examination of your skin and moles every month. Additionally, have a dermatologist check your skin at least once a year, or more frequently if you have a history of skin cancer or numerous moles.

Are there any risk factors for developing suspicious moles?

Yes, several risk factors include: Family history of skin cancer Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes History of sunburns or excessive sun exposure Use of tanning beds Weakened immune system

Can suspicious moles be treated?

If a mole is determined to be cancerous, treatment options may include surgical removal, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the type and stage of skin cancer. Non-cancerous suspicious moles can also be removed for cosmetic reasons.

Do all moles need to be removed if they look suspicious?

Not all suspicious-looking moles need to be removed. A dermatologist will assess the mole and may recommend monitoring it or conducting a biopsy to determine if it is cancerous before deciding on removal.

What happens during a mole biopsy?

During a mole biopsy, a small sample of the mole is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancerous cells. The procedure can be done in a dermatologist’s office and usually involves local anaesthesia.

Can I prevent suspicious moles from developing?

While you cannot completely prevent moles from developing, you can reduce your risk of developing suspicious moles by: Wearing sunscreen daily Avoiding tanning beds Seeking shade during peak sun hours Wearing protective clothing and hats when outdoors Regularly checking your skin for changes

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The Importance of Getting Suspicious-Looking Moles Checked

Following the news that Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer, doctors at the Health Suite in Leicester have stressed how important it is to get tested if you have any concerns about your skin or moles.

Dr Asiya Maula said, “Skin cancer, one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, is a health concern that demands our attention. The importance of getting any suspicious-looking moles reviewed can not be understated”

Understanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, and it can manifest in various forms, the most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. However, it’s crucial to understand that skin cancer can affect anyone, not just those who spend a lot of time in the sun.

Early Detection is Key

The most compelling reason to get tested for skin cancer is the power of early detection. When caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable. Regular screenings can identify suspicious moles or skin changes early on, leading to quicker treatment and better outcomes. In particular, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has a high cure rate when detected and treated early.

Know Your Skin

Regular skin self-exams can play a crucial role in early detection. Familiarise yourself with your skin’s pattern of moles, freckles, and other marks to better recognise any changes. Look for new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing moles. These could be early signs of skin cancer.

Professional Screenings

While self-exams are important, they are no substitute for a professional screening by a dermatologist. A dermatologist can provide a thorough skin examination and identify any signs of cancer that you might miss. They can also recommend a screening schedule based on your personal risk factors, such as skin type, history of sunburns, family history of skin cancer, and overall health.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Apart from regular screenings, taking preventive measures is key. This includes using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, and steering clear of tanning beds. Remember, UV radiation can penetrate clouds and glass, so protection is essential even on cloudy days or while indoors near windows.

The Health Suite in Leicester offers a “Trucheck Intelli” test, which can help avoid late cancer detection, which can lead to intensive and expensive treatments. Finding cancer early, before you have symptoms, can significantly improve your chances of survival.

Find out more about Trucheck Intelli and cancer tests here.

Common Q&A about Suspicious-Looking Moles

Want to book a mole removal appointment in Leicester

Book private Mole Mapping at The Health Suite Leicester. Get advanced digital dermoscopy and expert skin cancer screenings from consultant dermatologists

Private Mole Removal in Leicester. Safe, doctor-led surgical excision under local anaesthetic with professional histology testing and minimal scarring.

Skin Lesion Photography in Leicester. Get fast-track digital screening and consultant dermatologist reviews.

Private Cryotherapy Skin Treatments in Leicester. Safe, medical-grade freezing to remove skin tags, warts, sun damage, and benign lesions.

Book private GP-Led Minor Skin Surgery at The Health Suite Leicester. Safe, sterile removal of moles, cysts, lipomas, and skin tags with minimal scarring.

Private General Dermatology in Leicester. Professional medical care, rash diagnostics, acne management, and mole checks in a modern clinic setup.

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The Importance of Getting Suspicious-Looking Moles Checked

Understanding Skin Cancer

Early Detection is Key

Know Your Skin

Professional Screenings

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Common Q&A about Suspicious-Looking Moles

Want to book a mole removal appointment in Leicester

Mole Mapping

Mole Removal

Skin Lesion Photography and Mole Check

Cryotherapy Treatment

GP-Led Minor Skin Surgery

General Dermatology

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