Skin cancer is a major global health problem. While many skin cancers are harmless, it is important to be aware of some warning signs and symptoms to get timely treatment.

Skin cancer often goes unnoticed or misdiagnosed because it can look like a simple skin problem. To avoid misdiagnosis, you must be able to detect changes in your skin. Skin cancer symptoms can vary from person to person, and it is important to consult a skin specialist if the symptoms persist.                 

Listed below are five warning signs and symptoms of skin cancer:  

An abnormal bump or lump on the skin

A bump or lump on the skin can be a symptom of skin cancer. Most abnormal growths are not cancerous and will go away on their own. It has a higher chance of being skin cancer if it looks different than other spots, is growing, or is bleeding. It is important to consult a doctor if you notice any suspicious changes that might indicate skin cancer.

A mole with redness or swelling beyond its borders

A mole with redness or swelling beyond its borders can be a sign of skin cancer. This type of mole is called bleeding, non-raised, changing, or evolving moles. It is important to have any suspicious moles checked out by a dermatologist who can determine whether they need to be removed.

A new mole or lesion that bleeds and changes color 

Moles and lesions that bleed or change color can be a symptom of skin cancer. A new mole or lesion that bleeds, scabs over, and then bleeds again is a warning sign of melanoma. It is recommended that you see a doctor if you find any moles that are different from others, or change in size, shape, or color. 

A mole or lesion that changes shape, size, or texture

A mole or lesion that changes shape, size, or texture can be a symptom of skin cancer. Because the symptoms of skin cancer can be subtle, it is important to allow the physician to examine any potential changes at the earliest to avoid delays in treatment. The change in the mole's texture can be from brown to black, from smooth to rough, and from velvety to flaky. In some cases, it is helpful to get more than one opinion from different doctors. It is best to pay attention to any changes that occur in your moles, especially if they are noticeable as this can save you from getting serious skin cancer. 

A mole or lesion that has irregular borders

A mole or lesion that has irregular borders can be a symptom of skin cancer. A benign mole is generally round or oval and uniform in color; it will not change over time. A suspicious mole is irregular in shape, may be asymmetrical, and often has an irregular or uneven border. This is especially important for darker-skinned patients, who are also usually less likely to develop moles in the same shape and location as their fairer-skinned counterparts. Most moles are circular with regular borders, but if a mole doesn't fit this description, the person must see a doctor.