22-05-2025
Recognise the signs of melanoma
May has been designated as International Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness and educate the public on skin cancer, its detection, and prevention.
According to CANSA (The Cancer Association of South Africa), skin cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer among male South Africans and the fifth most prevalent among female South Africans.
South Africa has a high rate of skin cancer, likely due to our location and the harshness of the African sun. Exposure to UV radiation (from the sun or tanning beds) is the number one cause of skin cancer. The sun's UV rays damage skin cells, leading to abnormal cell growth and the development of cancerous tumours.
While it is more common for skin cancer to develop over a long term due to prolonged UV exposure, it is also possible for it to develop after short periods of intense sun exposure or burning. This is why it is imperative to drive education on sun safety practices. After all, prevention is better than cure.
There is a common misconception that only men and women with fair skin tones are at risk of developing skin cancer. While fairer skin tones (Fitzpatrick types I and II) have a higher risk of developing melanoma than people with naturally darker skin tones, dark-skinned men and women are not exempt from sunburn or skin cancer.
Dark skin produces more melanin (the pigment that gives our skin its colour). This offers some protection against sunburn and skin cancer, but it is a myth that darker skin tones are immune to the harmful effects of UV radiation.
So what can be done? In short, plenty. Taking precautions when spending time outdoors goes a long way in preventing skin cancer. Apply (and reapply) a broad-spectrum SPF product to all exposed areas of the body when outdoors. Wear sunscreen on your face every single day, even during winter.
Cover up with a hat, sunglasses and loose, comfortable clothing and avoid spending time in direct sunlight during peak hours (10am to 2pm). Never make use of a sun bed and don't expose your skin to the sun in an attempt to sun tan. A tan is a sign of skin damage, so invest in a good quality self-tan product instead.
Visit a dermatologist for a check-up every few years and – importantly – if you notice something different on your skin, be it a mole, a sore that doesn't heal or an unexplained mark, visit your healthcare practitioner.
Like with all forms of cancer, early detection is key. Learn the simple ABCDEs of skin cancer and monitor your moles to determine when to visit your healthcare provider. A simple self-exam could save your life!
A: Asymmetry
If your mole is different on one side and looks asymmetrical (i.e. its sides don't match), it may be a sign of melanoma.
B: Borders
A mole with an uneven border at its edges could be a sign of melanoma or other types of skin cancer.
C: Colour
Your mole should be one colour. If it appears to have more than one colour or varying shades of colour, it should be looked at by a professional.
D: Diameter
A larger mole (with a diameter of around 6mm or larger) could be a warning sign of skin cancer. If it's bigger than the size of an eraser on a pencil, get it checked.
E: Evolving
If your mole evolves or changes, in terms of colour, shape or size, it could be a sign of melanoma.
Look closely at your skin in front of a full length mirror, as well as with a hand mirror. Examine your body from front to back, and remember to raise your arms, look on the inside of your mouth, between your fingers and toes, the soles of your feet, under your breasts and the back of your neck. Try to do this about once a month, and if you notice anything strange, visit your healthcare provider. Remember, early detection saves lives!
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
