Skin Cancer Awareness Month: What to Look for and When to Get Checked

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to focus on prevention, early detection, and education. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but when caught early, it is also one of the most treatable.

At Tennessee Cancer Specialists, we are committed to helping patients understand the warning signs and take proactive steps toward protecting their health.

Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters

Skin cancer affects millions of Americans each year, with the most common types being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While some forms grow slowly, others like melanoma can spread quickly if not detected early.

The good news: regular skin checks and awareness of changes in your skin can make a life-saving difference.

What to Look for: Warning Signs of Skin Cancer

Knowing what to watch for is key. Here are some of the most important signs and changes to monitor:

1. The ABCDE Rule for Moles

Use this simple guide to evaluate moles or spots on your skin:

  • A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
  • B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred
  • C – Color: Uneven color or multiple shades (brown, black, red, white, or blue)
  • D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
  • E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an evaluation.

2. New Growths or Spots

Be aware of any new moles, bumps, or lesions that appear on your skin, especially if they look different from your other spots.

3. Changes in Existing Moles

A mole that starts to itch, bleed, crust, or grow should not be ignored.

4. Non-Healing Sores

Any sore that does not heal within a few weeks, or that repeatedly heals and returns, may be a warning sign.

5. Redness or Swelling Beyond a Mole

Look for redness or new swelling beyond the border of a mole, which could indicate irritation or something more serious.

6. Sensation Changes

Pain, tenderness, itching, or a burning feeling in a spot on your skin can be an early indicator of concern.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase your risk:

  • Prolonged sun exposure or history of sunburns
  • Use of tanning beds
  • Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
  • Family or personal history of skin cancer
  • A large number of moles or unusual moles

Prevention Tips to Protect Your Skin

Taking simple steps can significantly reduce your risk:

  • Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
  • Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
  • Avoid indoor tanning

When to See a Specialist

If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, don’t wait. Early detection is critical for successful treatment outcomes. A professional skin exam can provide peace of mind and catch potential issues before they progress.

At Tennessee Cancer Specialists, our experienced team is here to guide you through screening, diagnosis, and treatment with personalized care.

Take Action This May

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to check your skin and encourage your loved ones to do the same. A quick self-exam could save your life.

If you have concerns or would like to schedule a skin evaluation, contact Tennessee Cancer Specialists today.