The ABCDE Rule for Checking Moles
| Letter | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| A — Asymmetry | One half doesn't match the other |
| B — Border | Irregular, notched, or blurred edges |
| C — Colour | Uneven colour; multiple shades of brown, black, red, or blue |
| D — Diameter | Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) — though melanomas can be smaller |
| E — Evolving | Changing in size, shape, colour, or symptoms (itching, bleeding) over time |
Other Warning Signs
- A new mole appearing after age 30-40
- A mole that itches, bleeds, or becomes crusty
- A sore that doesn't heal within a few weeks
- A mole that looks different from all your other moles ('ugly duckling' sign)
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
- Fair skin, red or blonde hair, light eyes
- History of severe sunburn, especially in childhood
- Many moles (>50) or atypical moles
- Family history of melanoma
- Regular use of sunbeds
- Significant sun exposure history, especially intermittent intense exposure
Suspicious Mole — Get Checked UrgentlyAny mole meeting the ABCDE criteria, especially rapid changes or bleeding, warrants an urgent GP appointment. In the UK, GPs can refer suspicious lesions on a 'two-week wait' urgent pathway for rapid dermatology assessment.
Monthly Self-ChecksCheck your entire skin monthly, including your back, scalp, soles of feet, and between toes (use a mirror or ask a partner for help with hard-to-see areas). Take photos of moles you're monitoring to track changes over time.
Are all new moles dangerous?
No — new moles commonly appear up until around age 40, especially with sun exposure. However, new moles appearing after 40, or any mole showing ABCDE features, should be checked.
What happens at a mole check appointment?
A doctor examines the lesion, often with a dermatoscope (magnifying light tool). Suspicious lesions are usually removed (excision biopsy) for laboratory analysis to confirm or rule out cancer.
Can melanoma occur in areas without sun exposure?
Yes — melanoma can occur on the soles of feet, palms, under nails, and even in the eye, particularly in people with darker skin tones, where it's often diagnosed later due to lower awareness of these sites.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.