This Morning: Jon Courtenay recalls skin cancer diagnosis
Cancer Research UK records that there are close to 17,000 cases of melanoma skin cancer every year. While that sounds unnerving, it equates to 46 every day, there are some more reassuring statistics. 87 percent of people who get melanoma survive for more than ten years afterwards and 86 percent of cases are preventable.
With skin cancer, it is relatively easy to spot if something is wrong due to the cancerous region being visible to the naked eye.
The key is knowing what to look for and when to consult your GP.
One of the earliest signs of melanoma is either a new mole or a change in the shape of an existing mole.
Most moles are round or oval in shape with a smooth edge.
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Signs for cancer can appear on any part of your body. (Image: Getty Images)
You should see your GP if you start to notice changes in the mole over the course of a few weeks or a month.
These include whether that mole is getting bigger, changing shape, changing colour, bleeding or becoming crusty.
Consider consulting your GP too if the mole is itchy or sore.
There is also an ABCDE checklist by the NHS that can be followed.
DON’T MISS
A is for Asymmetrical, melanomas can have two different halves.
They can also be an irregular shape.
B is for Border.
Look around the edge of the melanoma as they have a ragged, rather than a smooth, border.
If you have any concerns over a mole, contact your GP for a consultation. (Image: Getty Images)
C is for Colours.
Whereas a mole will have a solid colour, melanomas may have two.
They can also have more.
D is for Diameter.
Symptoms of cancer to look out for. (Image: Daily Express)
Check if the diameter is more than 6mm.
E is for Enlargement or Elevation.
If a mole changes shape over time it is more likely to be a melanoma.
If you have any concerns over a changing mole and it exhibits these symptoms, contact your GP.