-
Growing up in our sunburnt country, we’re taught from an early age of the risks associated with sun exposure; from premature ageing to vision damage, and of course, skin cancer, with two in three Australians predicted to be diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 70.
New guidelines for assessing moles were released in 2018, with statistics revealing that up to 20% of all melanomas are only partially pigmented (hypomelanotic) and may be more difficult to detect given they are less obvious in nature and paler in colour. Read on to find out more about the new guidelines and how they affect you.
Learning to spot the difference
According to Cancer Council Australia, 95% of skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early. As a first point of call, you can perform your own skin check using the ‘ABCDE method’ below. If you notice any of the following symptoms in your moles, arrange a visit with your doctor.
Asymmetry: One half of your spot doesn’t match the other