As a baby in your birthday suit you might not have had any moles, but chances are you have a few now. Most everyone develops 10 to 40 moles, according to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH. While most moles are nothing to worry about, the NIH says, some may develop into skin cancer. That is why you should keep track of moles on your body and take note of any that look unusual.
Types
Moles, also called nevi, are skin cells that grow in a cluster with the surrounding tissue. The NIH says most moles develop before age 40 and can take on a variety of appearances--but usually are pink, tan or brown, in a round or oval shape and smaller than a pencil eraser. Abnormal moles, called dysplastic nevi, can develop into skin cancer called melanoma, according to the NIH.
Spotting Problems
Changes in a mole's size, shape or color could be clues that it is becoming malignant, according to the American Cancer Society article "How Is Melanoma Found?" The Society recommends an "ABCD" rule: Look for Asymmetry, an irregular Border, a variation in Color or a Diameter larger than about 1/4-inch. According to a Mayo Clinic article on moles, other possible danger signs are moles that hurt, itch, burn, ooze, bleed or are scaly.
Risk Factors
Unprotected exposure to sun increases your risk for all skin cancers, including melanoma, and may cause more moles to develop, according to an American Academy of Dermatology report on moles. Also, the report says, moles that you were born with are more likely than others to become cancerous.
Early Detection
As with other cancers, melanoma is most curable when it is found early, according to the American Cancer Society. Check your body about once a month--getting someone to help you if necessary--and keep track of any new moles or any changes. Have your doctor look at any mole that seems unusual, the Society advises.
Treatment
A dermatologist can cut out a larger mole or shave off a smaller one, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Follow-up care may be needed if lab analysis of the mole finds that it was malignant. Also, be sure to return to the doctor promptly if a mole that was removed grows back, the Academy advises.
