Skin Cancer Awareness MonthLearn Your ABCDs (of Skin Cancer Prevention, Silly!)

Regular examinations are key to noticing potential areas of concern when it comes to skin cancer. While it's a good idea to have a doctor do an exam yearly, self-exams are also vital. Have your husband, mother, sister or a really good friend help you with hard to see areas, and don't forget to check "hidden" places like the soles of your feet, between your toes & fingers, and on your scalp.

So, once you're looking, how do you know what's normal and what's not? Know your ABCDs, that's how- it's an easy mnemonic to help you remember the red-flags that should send you straight to your friendly neighborhood dermatologist.

• A is for Asymmetry- Regular moles are uniform in shape- if you notice that one half of the mole is different than the other half, have it checked.
• B is for Border- Edges of healthy moles or nodules are smooth & well defined. Notched, uneven, or blurred edges may be cause for alarm.
• C is for Color- "Normal" moles are composed of one shade, where as unevenly colored moles that combine different shades of tan, brown and black should be examined.
• D is for Diameter- the size around the mole shouldn't be larger than 6 millimeters. If you don't have a metric ruler handy, that's about the size of a pencil eraser.

Now you know your ABCDs, go do a check and stay healthy! (Sing it right, folks!)