Skin cancer warning signs you need to be aware of

With summer on the way, now is a good time to check your skin awareness is up to scratch. Rob Picheta speaks to the experts

SUMMER is on its way, but spending hours in the baking sun does come with its risks.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Ireland. There are different types of skin cancer, and while some can seem easy to treat, others can spread and become life-threatening if not caught early enough — which is why it’s vital to keep on top of your sun-protection regimen and look out for any tell-tale warning signs that might emerge.

“Not all skin cancers look alike — it’s important to know what the warning signs are and to check your skin every couple of months,” says dermatologist Dr Stephanie Munn. “Like most cancers, early detection is key in treating and stopping the spread of the cancer.”

Remember, while any one of these signs could have a number of innocent causes, it’s always worth checking with your GP, sooner rather than later.

Here are seven potential skin cancer warning signs to keep in mind...

A new mole

Some people have more moles than others — but how familiar can you claim to be with each of yours?

“It’s important to get to know any moles, freckles and marks on your skin, so you’ll recognise if there are any changes or abnormalities. In many cases, the change won’t be anything to worry about, but it’s a good idea to get any changes checked out by a doctor or medical professional,” says Dr Simon Latham, a general practitioner.

There’s certainly no need to panic if you notice a new mole popping up on your skin — but keep an eye on it. It’s also a good idea to count all the existing moles you can find and give them a look-over every now and then, and remember to check awkward places like the soles of your feet and your back, using a body-length mirror.

A mole that’s changing size or colour

You know it’s important to check on your moles regularly, but what exactly should you be looking for? “In a normal mole, the border should be smooth,” says Dr Sarah Brewer, a GP and author of over 60 health books.

“If it is irregular, scalloped, or ragged then that may be a warning sign — usually, the ones that look a little ‘ugly’ are the ones to watch. If you notice a mole getting darker, larger, or becoming raised, get it checked by your GP.”

Look out to see if the surface becomes scaly or if it’s causing irritation as well, and compare it to other moles on your body to track any differences.

Itch that won’t go away

“If a mole starts to itch or change in other ways, it should always be brought to the attention of your doctor,” Dr Brewer says. “This is sometimes a sign that the mole is changing and that, if it is left untreated, it may develop into a skin cancer.”

The same is true for any spot or blemish which is causing you trouble for an extended period of time — don’t spend months scratching the same part of your body before you get it checked out.

Lumps or ulcers

Skin cancer doesn’t just present itself in moles; lumps and ulcers can also be symptoms, so keep an eye on anything on your skin that doesn’t seem quite right. Ulcers are often found around the eyes — these bleed easily and are usually pale in appearance. Red lumps can also be clues and these can be harder to find; they usually appear on hands, ears and the scalp and are more common in people who use medication that could suppress the immune system.

Black spots in awkward places

“Skin cancers can occur on the most intimate of places,” notes Dr Brewer, who advises us to check our privates and inside the mouth. Dentists check for mouth cancer as well as tooth hygiene, so regular check-ups are a good idea.

A spot under the nail

It’s rare, but melanoma can develop under your finger and toe nails too — so keep an eye on any dark spots under the nail that linger for longer than a couple of weeks.

It’s a sign that Dr Brewer is always on the lookout for: “I recently took a man aside at a party and asked about the black spot under his thumb nail,” she says.

Turns out, he’d hit himself on the nail with a hammer and the black bruise was slowly growing out with the nail, but you can never be too careful.”

Bumpy or shiny skin

Non-melanoma skin cancer is less serious than melanoma, but should still be checked to prevent it spreading across the body. Bumpy, red or shiny skin is a sign that you might have this strand, says Dr Munn.

“Keep an eye out for any lumps with scaling or crusting skin on top, or if an area of skin is raised and isn’t healing normally. There could be other causes of bumpy skin, like eczema or an allergic reaction, so talk to your doctor who can diagnose and treat the problem.”

It’s important to get to know your skin and take note of any irregularities, but there’s plenty you can do to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

“Make sure that you cover up,” Dr Latham stresses.

“Wear a hat, sunglasses and long sleeves and apply sunscreen to any area that’s directly exposed to the sun.”