Written by Roshni Mistry, Senior Wellbeing Physiologist
Around 1 in 4 people in the UK are affected by skin diseases, ranging from mild to serious conditions, including skin cancer, which accounts for over 100,000 new cases annually.
What is the difference between a non-melanoma and a melanoma?
Non-melanoma skin cancers are generally seen as slow-growing and treatment can vary depending on the location on the skin. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer in the UK whereby the starting point of the cancer is within the basal cells in a layer of skin called the epidermis. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type, where the development stems from the squamous cell layers of the skin.
In comparison, a melanoma, also known as a malignant melanoma, is a cancer that usually initiates in the skin from a mole or in normal-looking skin. Melanomas can develop from skin cells that make melanin which gives our skin its colour called melanocytes. Damage in melanocytes can be caused by build-up in UV radiation by sunlight, sunbeds or sunlamps leading to the cells growing and dividing more quickly than usual.
Whilst melanomas are more aggressive in nature in comparison to non-melanoma, it is important to note that all types of skin cancer will vary for their diagnosis and treatment, therefore it is crucial to see a key a medical professional for these concerns.
A guide on self-examinations
A self-examination takes only a few minutes and could help you to become more familiar with your skin helping to identify any changes over time and could even help to spot early signs of skin cancer.
Preparation is key
When performing a skin check, its important to be prepared by ensuring that the room is well-lit and consider using tools such as a camera or a phone to help to compare any changes to your skin over time. Having a trusted friend or family member close by could also be helpful in the case of checking for any changes in your back or scalp. Writing notes about the size, colour and location of any marks of concern could also be a useful tool.
What to look for:
- New spots or growths
- Changes in existing moles or freckles, such as size, shape or colour
- Sores that don’t heal or heal and return
- Itchy, tender or painful areas
- Scaly patches, raised lumps or bumps
- Bleeding or oozing moles or spots
Use the ABCDE rule for moles
When checking moles or dark spots, look for the following warning signs of a melanoma:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other
B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, notched or blurred
C – Colour: Uneven colours or multiple shades (brown, red, black, white or blue)
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm
E – Evolving: Any changes in size, shape, colour or texture over time
Seeking medical professional help
Getting checked
If you work outdoors with high UV exposure, have a history of sunburn, family history of skin cancer or any other diagnoses of skin conditions then it is crucial to perform regular self-examinations and to see a GP or a dermatologist annually for a full-body skin check.
It is especially recommended to seek medical advice through your GP or dermatologist if you notice:
- A mole or spot that fits the ‘ABCDE’ criteria
- A new growth or mole that looks unusual
- A sore that doesn’t heal after a few weeks
- Any other persistent changes in your skin
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