Melanoma Awareness Month: How to Spot the Warning Signs

At Florida Academic Dermatology Center, we are dedicated to your skin’s health all year! This Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re breaking down the early warning signs of skin cancer for the best treatment options for a successful recovery!

Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting 20% of Americans in their lifetime. That’s 1 in 5 people, with an estimated 104,960 new melanoma cases expected to be diagnosed in 2025. 

As the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma is particularly dangerous because it can spread quickly, affecting other organs like the lymph nodes, lungs, and brain. Once melanoma has metastasized to other areas of the body, it becomes more difficult to treat, which may lead to fatal consequences. 

Thankfully, with early detection and appropriate treatment, the most common forms of skin cancer, including melanoma, have a 99% 5-year survival rate.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma

For many skin cancer survivors, the first signs of an issue appear as an unusual mole or skin tag. While every mole is not cause for concern, paying attention to the ABCDEs of skin cancer can aid in early detection.

Here’s what you need to know:

• A: Asymmetry: one side of the growth does not match the other
• B: Border: irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges
• C: Color: uneven color, typically brown, red, back, pink, white, or even blue
• D: Diameter: the growth is more than 6 millimeters (about ¼ inch) across
• E: Evolving: the growth changes in size, shape, or color

If you notice any of these symptoms, make sure to schedule a skin exam with a board-certified dermatologist at FADC.

Skin Cancer and Skin of Color

Despite common misconceptions, no one is immune to skin cancer risks, regardless of ethnic background or skin color. While people with lighter skin and hair have an increased risk of skin cancer, people of color are at higher risk of late diagnosis because of missed symptoms and false information.

Skin cancer can look different on skin of color, and because it's often diagnosed at a later stage in people with darker skin tones, awareness of the signs is crucial. Here are common signs of skin cancer in skin of color:

• A new spot, sore, or growth that doesn't heal or continues to grow.
• A mole or patch of skin that changes in size, shape, or color.
• Pigmented lesions (brown, black, red, purple, or multicolored) that appear in previously unaffected areas.
• A dark streak under a nail (especially if it’s getting wider or darker)
• Nail lifting or deformity without trauma

Other often overlooked signs include a persistent sore or ulcer, especially on the legs or feet, that doesn’t heal over weeks or months. Melanoma in people of color is also more likely to appear in areas not exposed to the sun, such as:

• Palms and soles
• Under the nails (subungual melanoma)
• Mucous membranes (inside the mouth, genitals)

This Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, prioritize protecting your skin and knowing your skin cancer status. Schedule a skin exam with Florida Academic Dermatology Center today!