Know the difference between normal moles and cancer

Each person has about 10 to 40 moles in their body. Moles are generally harmless, but their color, size or shape can be an early sign of skin cancer.

The skin has dye-producing cells (pigments) called melanocyte cells. When these melanocyte cells develop together, one mole is formed. Melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer that is now quite common, occurs when melanocyte cells grow out of control. In infancy, melanoma is difficult to distinguish from normal moles.
The difference between a normal mole and melanoma

Although it sometimes looks like, normal moles and melanoma skin cancer presents some differences. This difference can be seen from:
 
1. Size or diameter

Normal moles are usually less than 5 millimeters in size. If there is a mole larger than 6 millimeters, then the mole must be aware.
 
2. form

Normal moles are usually oval or round in shape. If you pay attention, the mole looks symmetrical. In skin cancer, moles are usually asymmetrical or irregular in shape.
 
3. Boundaries and surfaces

Normal moles usually have clear borders and a smooth surface. Whereas in skin cancer, moles are usually not clear, impure, or fade into the surrounding skin. Its surface is sometimes slightly scaly, dry, thickened or hardened.
 
4. color

Normal moles are usually brown or slightly pink. The color between the moles on a person's body is usually uniform.

If someone has a mole of a different color, from light brown to dark brown, to black or red, there is a possibility that the mole is skin cancer.
 
5. Amount or increase in number

The shape of a normal mole does not usually change much and the amount does not increase in adulthood. If there is a mole whose size increases or decreases, if the color changes, thickens or even appears at the age of more than 40 years, chances are the mole is skin cancer.

Other changes that need to be taken into account are the appearance of itching, pain, wounds and loss such as pus or mole blood.

Having one or more moles with abnormal shapes is clearly not melanoma. Sometimes these moles may be atypical moles that have an unusual appearance, but not cancer.

If you find a mole that looks abnormal, you should consult a dermatologist for additional tests. In addition to consultation and physical examination, the doctor will conduct a biopsy to help confirm the diagnosis of skin cancer.

If you or your family have a history of skin cancer or are often exposed to sunlight, monthly skin checks are recommended for the whole body. Look for moles that have unusual shapes and sizes, from the scalp to the soles of the feet. If necessary, ask your family to help you examine areas of your body that are difficult to see, such as the scalp.

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