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Skin changes, including the appearance of new moles or changes in existing moles, can be concerning due to their potential association with skin cancer. It is crucial to monitor these changes closely, as early detection plays a significant role in the treatment and outcome of skin-related issues.
Understanding the warning signs and when to seek medical advice is essential for maintaining skin health and overall well-being. Read on to learn what distinctions might signal a need for professional evaluation and what steps you should consider if you encounter such changes.
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Understanding Moles and Skin Changes:
1. Moles are common skin growths formed by pigment cells called melanocytes. Most people have between 10 to 40 moles, which can appear at birth or develop during childhood and early adult life.
2. Moles generally change slowly, becoming raised or changing color. Often, these changes are harmless, but certain evolutions can indicate melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
Signs to Watch For:
1. Asymmetry:
If one half of the mole does not match the other.
2. Border:
If the edges of the mole are irregular, blurred, or ragged.
3. Color:
If the color of the mole is not uniform and contains shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red.
4. Diameter:
If the mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) or is growing in size.
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