"The earlier you find, and diagnose and 6detect a cancer, the higher the 7cure rate will be from the cancer."
Dr. Shane Dormady with El Camino Health says up to 95% of skin cancers are curable, but knowing the warning signs is critical.
He says the letters A-B-C-D-E can help you remember the 8red flags.
A is for 9Asymmetry. If a spot isn't a perfect circle or has an 10odd shape, get it checked.
B is for 11Border. Beware of a spot that's not 12sharply 13defined.
C is for color.
"Anything that is really dark, black, or purplish or of course bleeding, is a major warning sign and needs to be checked out immediately by a 14physician."
D is for 15Diameter. Dormady says if a spot is larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser, see a doctor.
Finally, E is for 16Evolution.
"If the colors changing, if something's getting bigger, that's 17worrisome for a skin cancer."
Dormady says if you spot a warning sign, see a doctor.
He says anyone with a personal history of skin cancer should see a 18dermatologist every three months.
Those with a family history should get skin checked by a doctor every six months.
And everyone should get a skin screening from a board-certified dermatologist at least once per year.
