Spotting Skin Cancer: Recognising The Signs And Symptoms

By Bharati Kumari
01 Jul 2023, 12:29 IST

Skin cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Here are nine key symptoms of skin cancer.

UNUSUAL SKIN GROWTH

Pay attention to new growths, moles that change in size, colour, or shape, or any lesion that doesn't heal.

ABNORMAL MOLES

Keep an eye out for moles with irregular borders, multiple colours, or larger than the size of a pencil eraser.

CHANGES IN TEXTURE

Notice any skin patches that become rough, scaly, itchy, or bleed without any apparent cause.

SPOTS THAT DON'T HEAL

Persistent sores that don't heal within a few weeks could be a warning sign of skin cancer.

REDNESS OR SWELLING

Watch out for red or swollen areas that persist, particularly if they are painful or tender to the touch.

SENSATION CHANGES

Be wary of any skin area that experiences prolonged itching, tenderness, or pain.

CHANGES IN PIGMENTATION

Look for dark or black areas, or patches of white, pink, or blue that appear out of the ordinary.

BLEEDING OR OOZING

Be concerned if a spot on your skin starts bleeding, becomes crusty, or oozes fluid.

RAPID GROWTH

If a mole or lesion noticeably grows in size over a short period of time, consult a dermatologist promptly.

BOTTOM LINE

Early detection saves lives. Stay vigilant and seek medical attention.