Mole Screening

For most people, checking your moles every few years is sufficient. However, if you’re considered high-risk – such as having fair skin, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer – an annual check-up is a sensible precaution.

Key risk factors include:

• Fair skin that burns easily
• A large number of moles
• Family history of skin cancer
• Past episodes of sunburn, especially in childhood

Skin cancer is often discussed as a single condition, but there are two main types, and they behave quite differently:

Melanoma Skin Cancer

• Around 16,200 cases and 2,300 deaths annually in the UK
• Affects men and women equally (commonly found on the back in men and legs in women)
• 70% of melanomas develop from new moles
• Development timeline: months to years
• Detection: Rarely causes symptoms early on. Watch for changes in colour, size, or shape – melanomas are often dark, flat, or irregular
• Treatment: Surgical excision

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

• The most common form of skin cancer
• Typically caused by age and long-term sun exposure
• Detection: Symptoms include itching, bleeding, or pain; signs include a red patch or lump that grows slowly over time
• Treatment: Photodynamic therapy or surgical excision

“If in doubt, check it out.”

It’s often hard for someone without dermatology training to know whether a skin lesion is concerning or not. That’s where we come in—to provide expert support and peace of mind.