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.
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.
Who 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.
What are the 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 puts them out of reach — so a treatable cancer too often becomes a fatal one. World Aid Network funds treatment through locally-licensed oncologists for patients who cannot pay.
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.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. It was reviewed by the World Aid Network editorial team for accuracy against NHS and World Health Organization sources. Always speak to a GP or qualified clinician about your own health.