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When should a mole be checked by a doctor?

Dr. Arek Dudek, oncologist at Health Partners, says catching skin cancer early is key

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. - This week in our Real Men Wear Gowns campaign we continue our conversation about skin cancer.

Dr. Arek Dudek, oncologist at Health Partners, says catching skin cancer early is key.

“If it's detected early it can be easily removed and your chances of surviving is very high,” Dr. Dudek says.

So how do you know if a mole may be of concern? Dr. Dudek offers the "ABCDE" rule:

- “A” stands for asymmetry. Is it not more of a round shape?

- “B” stands for borders. Does it have irregular borders?

- “C” stands for colors. Is it different colors?

- “D” stands for diameter. Is it a half an inch or more wide?

- “E” stands for evolution. Dr. Dudek says this is probably the most important factor to watch. If it changes over time or starts bleeding, it’s a good idea to get it looked at by a doctor.

When it comes to skin cancer in general, it’s no surprise that Dr. Dudek says sun plays a key factor.

“We know for sure that sun exposure is the biggest risk factor for developing melanoma,” he says.

Dr. Dudek says there's some evidence out there that people who aren't exposed to sun on a regular basis and then get burnt may be more at risk for developing it. Those trips to escape the cold in the winter are an important time to protect yourself, he says.

“If you need to enjoy sun during the winter, please be conscious about protecting your skin during that trip,” Dr. Dudek says.

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