How to identify skin cancer?

How to Identify Skin Cancer

🔍 What the iChhori Article Covers (Jan 2022)

Explains the main types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Recommends monthly self-exams using full-length and hand mirrors.
Introduces the “ABCDE” rule for melanoma detection: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving.
Notes signs like non-healing sores, bleeding spots, texture changes, and new growths.

ABCDE Rule: Widely endorsed by sources like CDC and Verywell Health as a key melanoma detection method :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Appears as shiny, pearly bumps, non-healing sores, or crusted patches :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Often shows as scaly, reddish patches, firm nodules, non-healing ulcers—especially on sun-exposed skin :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Self-Exams & Professional Diagnosis: Perform full-body checks monthly, including scalp, feet, and private areas, and consult a dermatologist for any suspicious lesions—biopsy may be necessary :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
Early Detection Saves Lives: Treating skin cancer early—especially melanoma—increases cure rates dramatically; early-stage melanoma has >99% 5-year survival :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Once a month, in bright lighting and full view of mirrors.
Check all skin, including scalp, between toes, buttocks, genitals.
Use ABCDE rule to evaluate spots: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter (>6 mm), Evolving.
Look for any non-healing sores, bleeding spots, crusty patches, or bumps.
Document changes with photos or notes.
See a dermatologist immediately if anything seems off—or if a “pimple” doesn’t heal in 4+ weeks :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Skin cancer is