In short
Melanoma is the most serious skin cancer. Check moles for ABCDE — Asymmetry, uneven Border, more than one Colour, Diameter over 6mm, or Evolving. A mole that itches, bleeds or a new dark streak under a nail also needs a GP. About 2,300 people die of melanoma in the UK each year. Stage 1 survival is over 90%. Do not use sunbeds.
Melanoma is about 4% of skin cancers but causes most skin-cancer deaths. It is often visible, which is why checking your skin works.
How do you use ABCDE?
Compare the mole with others on your body. The ugly duckling — the one that looks different — is worth showing a GP even if it is smaller than 6mm.
- Asymmetry — one half unlike the other
- Border — ragged or blurred edge
- Colour — more than one shade
- Diameter — larger than about 6mm
- Evolving — changing in size, shape, colour or symptoms
Can melanoma appear in skin that is not white?
Yes. Acral melanomas on palms, soles and under nails are more common in people with darker skin and are often diagnosed later. Check those sites.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careWho is at higher risk?
Lots of moles, previous sunburn, sunbeds, a family history, and a previous melanoma all raise risk. Pale skin burns more easily but no skin type is immune.
Key takeaways
- ABCDE plus the ugly-duckling mole is the practical check.
- Stage 1 survival is over 90%.
- Sunbeds raise melanoma risk.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Is a small mole safe?
Diameter is only one letter of ABCDE. A small changing mole still needs a check.
Can melanoma be flat?
Yes. Not every melanoma is a raised dark lump.
Do you fund melanoma treatment overseas?
When a licensed partner oncologist has recommended treatment a hospital can give.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.