Overview
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by long-term sun exposure, and it appears as a new growth or a change in an existing mole or patch. In India it is less common than in fair-skinned populations but still occurs, especially on sun-exposed skin and in outdoor workers, and it can be aggressive if the pigment type (melanoma) is missed. Most skin cancers are very curable when caught early, so any changing mole or non-healing sore should be checked.
Symptoms
- A new growth or a sore that does not heal
- A mole that changes in size, shape or colour
- A mole with an irregular or blurred border
- A patch that itches, bleeds or crusts
- A dark streak under a nail or a new dark spot
When to see a doctor
See a skin doctor for any changing mole, a sore that will not heal, or a new dark or irregular skin spot.
Causes
Long-term ultraviolet exposure from the sun, fair or sun-damaged skin, many moles, a weakened immune system, and family history.