TREATMENT

SKIN CANCER SURVEILLANCE

WHAT IS SKIN CANCER SURVEILLANCE?

Skin cancer surveillance is an exam where a health professional will systematically check the surface of the skin, especially areas that are often exposed to the sun.

They will look for any signs of moles, birthmarks, or other marks that are unusual.

These markings are generally abnormal in color, size, shape, or texture.

WHY IS SKIN CANCER SURVEILLANCE IMPORTANT?

85% of non-melanoma skin cancers develop on areas of the body that are frequently exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, melanomas can occur on skin that is not often exposed to the sun as well.

It is important to examine all areas of the skin because skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and accounts for 1/3 of all cancers diagnosed in Canada.

THE ABCDE RULE:

A = Asymmetry: One-half of a mole does not have the same shape as the other half.
B = Border: The edge of a mole is uneven (irregular). It can look jagged, notched, or blurry. The color may spread into the area around the mole.
C = Colour: The color of a mole is not the same throughout. It could have shades of tan, brown, and black. Sometimes areas of blue, grey, red, pink, or white are also seen.
D = Diameter: The size of a mole is larger than 6mm across, which is about the size of a pencil eraser.
E = Evolving: There is a change in the color, size, shape, or feel of the mole. The mole may become itchy or you may have a burning or tingling feeling.