Melanoma Awareness Month: Protect Your Skin & Detect Melanoma Early
Melanoma Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of skin checks and sun protection. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, but when detected early, it is highly treatable.
By understanding the warning signs, checking your skin regularly, and booking routine skin checks, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin health.
👉 Early detection saves lives.
If it has been more than 12 months since your last skin check—or you’ve noticed a new or changing spot—now is the time to act.
Book a skin check appointment or learn more about our skin cancer services.
Understanding Melanoma & Risk Factors
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigment. While it is commonly linked to sun exposure, melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including areas not regularly exposed to the sun.
Melanoma may appear as:
- A new spot on the skin
- A change in an existing mole
- A lesion that looks different from surrounding spots
Melanoma can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin tone. However, your risk may be higher if you:
- Have experienced severe or repeated sunburns
- Have frequent or prolonged sun exposure
- Have a family history of skin cancer
Being aware of your personal risk and staying vigilant is key to early detection.
Early Detection: What to Look For & How to Check Your Skin
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. A simple way to recognise warning signs is the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half does not match the other
- B – Border: Irregular, uneven, or blurred edges
- C – Colour: Variations in colour or changes over time
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or symptoms
In addition, performing a monthly skin self-examination can help you notice changes early.
When checking your skin:
- Examine your entire body, including scalp, soles of feet, and between toes
- Use a mirror or ask someone to help with hard-to-see areas
- Look for new spots or changes in existing moles
The process takes around 10 minutes and can make a life-saving difference.
Sun Protection & Prevention All Year Round
Sun protection is essential all year—not just during summer. Reducing UV exposure can significantly lower your risk of skin cancer.
Protect your skin by:
- Applying SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- Wearing wide-brim hats and protective clothing
- Seeking shade during peak UV hours
- Avoiding tanning beds
Small, consistent sun-safe habits add up over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Melanoma
How often should I check my skin?
We recommend performing a monthly skin self-exam and having a professional skin check at least once a year, or more often if advised by your doctor.
Can melanoma appear on areas not exposed to the sun?
Yes. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including the scalp, soles of the feet, under nails, and between toes.
Is melanoma only a concern for people with fair skin?
No. Melanoma can affect people of all skin tones and ages. Awareness and early detection are important for everyone.
When should I see a doctor about a mole or spot?
If a spot is new, changing, bleeding, painful, or looks different from others, it should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Does early detection really make a difference?
Yes. When melanoma is detected early, treatment is more effective and outcomes are significantly better.
