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Melanoma/Skin Cancer Health Center

Melanoma/Skin Cancer Overview

Skin cancers include melanoma, basal cell, and squamous cell. Basal and squamous cell are common and treatment is very effective; malignant melanoma, especially in later stages, is serious and can be difficult to treat. Sun exposure is the biggest cause of melanoma and other skin cancers. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase the survival rate from melanoma. Learn about the signs of all skin cancers, and familiarize yourself with pictures of skin cancer so you can spot it early.

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Symptoms

Early signs

The most important warning sign for melanoma is any change in size, shape, or color of a mole or other skin growth, such as a birthmark. Watch for changes that occur over a period of weeks to a month. Use the ABCDE rulecamera to evaluate skin changes, and call your health professional if you have any of the following changes.

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