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The ABDCDE’s of Skin Cancer

Date: 07/31/25

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. It is important to know about the signs and symptoms and ways you can prevent skin cancer.

The sun’s harmful UV rays and tanning beds can cause skin cancer. A change in your skin is the most common symptom of skin cancer, like changes in a mole or new growth on your skin. The CDC Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer webpage provides a simple way to check if your mole or growth may need to be checked by your doctor. Just follow the ABCDE’s:

  • Asymmetrical: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?
  • Border: Is the border irregular or jagged?
  • Color: Is the color uneven?
  • Diameter: Is the mole or spot larger than the size of a pea
  • Evolving: Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?

There are ways to help prevent skin cancer. Using sunscreen that is 15 SPF or higher and reapply frequently and wearing a hat and protective clothing to block your skin from the sun can help. Watch our Superior HealthPlan video for other tips about sun safety.

For more information about skin cancer and how to prevent it, visit the resources below: