Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color or feel of a mole. Most melanomas have a black or black-blue area. Melanoma may also appear as a new mole. It may be black, abnormal or “ugly looking.”

Thinking of “ABCD” can help you remember what to watch for:

—      Asymmetry - the shape of one half does not match the other

—      Border - the edges are ragged, blurred or irregular

—      Color - the color in uneven and may include shades of black, brown and tan

—      Diameter - there is a change in size, usually an increase

Melanoma can be cured if it is diagnosed and treated early. If melanoma is not removed in its early stages, cancer cells may grow downward from the skin surface and invade healthy tissue. If it spreads to other parts of the body it can be difficult to control.

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