Ever noticed a stubborn wound that just won’t heal or a mole that seems to be changing shape? It’s easy to brush these off as minor skin issues, but they could be early warning signs of skin cancer. While skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, the good news is that early detection significantly improves outcomes. To help you stay informed, Dr Manit Gundavda, Consultant, Orthopaedic Oncology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, shares key signs that could indicate skin cancer and when you should seek medical attention.
Warning Signs to Watch For1. Non-Healing Wounds “A sore that refuses to heal for weeks and keeps reopening or crusting over could indicate basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma,” warns Dr Gundavda. Unlike minor cuts, these wounds don’t heal naturally and require medical evaluation.
2. Moles That Change Over Time Moles are usually harmless, but a new mole or changes in an existing one should raise red flags. Dermatologists use the ABCDE rule to identify suspicious moles: - A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
- B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or ragged edges. - C – Colour: Multiple colors within the same mole. - D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or texture over time. “If you notice any of these changes, see a dermatologist without delay,” advises Dr Gundavda. 3.
Persistent Itching or Tendernes.
