Learn how to use the ABCDE method to identify skin cancer early

According to data from the National Cancer Institute (INCA), it is estimated that, every three years, there are about 176,930 cases of skin cancer in Brazil alone. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the moles that appear on the skin, as some of them may indicate the presence of the disease.

Dermatologist Paula Rahal says that skin lesions that do not heal require attention. “Noticing patches that are more than one color or that change color, or if they suddenly increase in size are important clues,” she says.

“ABCDE” Method

The “ABCDE” method was created with the aim of helping to observe these changes at home for early identification of the melanoma: the rarest but most dangerous type of skin cancer. Self-examination is important because it is through it that you can follow up and seek early medical attention. “This type of tumor appears with the appearance of a mole or mole that undergoes alterations and sometimes bleeds”, explains oncologist Isabella Tavares.

How to Use the “ABCDE” of Melanoma

• Asymmetry: it is necessary to observe whether the mole is symmetrical or not. The lesion is divided into four parts, passing one line horizontally and another vertically. The bottom is compared with the top and right with the left, that is, if it has different sizes and/or an irregular shape, it is suspect.
• Edge B: the edge of the moles should be even and smooth. If there are irregularities, they can also be an indication of the disease.
• Color C: As for spots that have different colors, such as red, white, black, gray-blue tones, or even more than one color, they are suspicious.
• D for Diameter: signs must be less than six millimeters in diameter. The larger the size, the greater the risk.
• And for Evolution: any sign of evolution, be it an increase in size, change in color and/or shape of the mole, it is necessary to seek a dermatologist.

Locations where moles appear the most

although it is the cancer of skin with a higher risk of death, early diagnosis increases the chances of curing melanoma to more than 90%. “In women, moles appear more often on the legs. Already in men, the most common are the spots that appear on the trunk. For both genders, the neck, décolletage and face are also areas where the moles normally appear”, says Paula Rahal.

skin cancer diagnosis

Self-examination does not replace medical diagnosis, but speeds up the treatment process. “A mole can look relatively normal to a patient and still be a melanoma. In addition to frequent observation, consultations and examinations with the dermatologist at least once a year are important to notice these signs early on”, says the doctor.

Importance of sun protection

O sunscreen topic is still the best form of prevention against cancer of skin. Hats, glasses, clothing against UV rays are also forms of sun protection. The old tip of avoiding exposure to the sun from 10 am to 4 pm is still very important, as this is the peak period for UVB rays, especially in summer.

“For the application of sunscreen, both on sunny and cloudy days, the spoon rule must be followed. One level teaspoon of product for the face and three tablespoons for the body. The photoprotector should be applied in the morning and reapplied in the afternoon. People who perspire a lot or are in contact with water, such as at the beach or at the pool, should reapply every two hours”, adds Paula.

Use of sunscreen in children

in children, the use of sunscreen is also important to prevent the appearance of skin cancers in adults, since sunburn can favor the appearance of the disease. “The sooner prevention starts, the better. If skin care was started from childhood, the chances of developing skin cancer in the future drop a lot”, says oncologist Isabella Tavares.