Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. It develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Identifying skin cancer in its early stages is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes. Understanding skin cancer symptoms and recognising potential warning signs can help individuals seek medical attention promptly.
This article provides an overview of early-stage skin cancer, including melanoma symptoms, how to differentiate cancerous moles from normal ones and when to consult a healthcare professional.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells undergo genetic mutations, leading to uncontrolled growth. The skin consists of three main layers:
Epidermis – The outermost layer, where most skin cancer develops.
Dermis – The middle layer, containing blood vessels, nerves and hair follicles.
Subcutaneous tissue – The deepest layer, providing insulation and cushioning.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are three primary types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common but least aggressive form, appearing as pearly or waxy bumps.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Often found in sun-exposed areas, it appears as red, scaly patches or open sores.
Melanoma – The most dangerous type, which develops in pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) and can spread quickly.
Early Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
Identifying early-stage skin cancer is essential for successful treatment. Some common signs of skin cancer include:
Changes in Moles (Mole Skin Examination)
A keyway to:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
B – Border: Irregular, ragged or blurred edges.
C – Colour: Multiple colours (black, brown, red, white or blue).
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape or colour over time.
Additional Melanoma Symptoms and Skin Cancer Signs
Apart from abnormal mole skin changes, look for:
A sore that does not heal.
Red or pink scaly patches.
A shiny, pearly lump.
A new growth or a change in an existing spot.
Itching, tenderness or bleeding in a mole.
Prevention and Risk Reduction
While skin cancer cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:
Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay indoors or seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Wear Protective Clothing: Hats, sunglasses and UV-blocking clothing offer extra protection.
Avoid Tanning Beds: Artificial UV radiation increases skin cancer risk.
Perform Regular Skin Checks: Self-exams help detect early-stage skin cancer before it spreads.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a dermatologist if you notice:
A mole with melanoma symptoms (ABCDE rule).
Persistent sores, lumps or patches that change over time.
Unexplained itching, tenderness or pain in a mole.
Seek medical attention at an oncology hospital for further evaluation and treatment. Early detection increases the likelihood of successful oncology treatment, especially for melanoma, which has defined stages ranging from localised to advanced metastatic cancer.
Recent advancements include:
AI-Powered Skin Cancer Detection: Machine learning algorithms help identify suspicious moles with high accuracy.
Targeted Therapies for Melanoma: Immunotherapy and targeted drugs improve survival rates.
Non-Invasive Skin Cancer Tests: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and confocal microscopy reduce unnecessary biopsies.
Recognising skin cancer symptoms early is key to successful treatment. Regular skin checks, sun protection and professional evaluations can help prevent complications. At Mediclinic UAE, our expert dermatologists use advanced diagnostic tools to detect early-stage skin cancer and provide cutting-edge treatment options. Whether you need a routine skin check or specialised care for cancerous moles, we’re here to help. Book your consultation with an oncology doctor and take the first step towards healthy, cancer-free skin. Your health is our priority!