With more than 1.5 million new cases worldwide in 2022, skin cancers are the most common cancer diagnoses worldwide. Apart from the classic symptoms, specialists point out that there are some lesser known signs that could indicate such a disease.
See your doctor if you notice a suspicious mole. Photo freepick
According to dermatologists, the most obvious sign that could signal skin cancer is a new mole or a change in an existing mole. You should see a doctor if you have: a mole that has changed in size, shape or color; a mole that is painful or itchy; an inflamed, bleeding, or crusted mole; a new or unusual skin mark that hasn’t gone away after a few weeks; a dark area under a nail that was not caused by a wound.
Apart from these, experts have warned about three other less known signs, which you should not ignore, reports The Mirror.
Chapped lips
Frequent chapped lips that do not improve with moisturizing treatments or worsen over time may indicate a form of skin cancer known as squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer is common in people exposed to the sun for prolonged periods or those who have a history of chronic sun damage.
Additionally, chapped lips accompanied by other worrisome signs, such as persistent sores, swelling, or changes in pigmentation, should prompt an immediate medical evaluation to rule out the possibility of skin cancer.
Most people experience chapped lips at some point during the year without it being a health problem, but if the condition is long-lasting and does not improve, seek medical evaluation.
Nail discoloration
Nail discoloration can sometimes be a symptom of underlying skin cancer, especially melanoma, a potentially dangerous form of the disease. Unexplained changes in nail color, such as dark streaks, bands or irregular pigmentation under the nails, known as subungual melanoma, are worrying signs that may indicate skin cancer.
Colorless moles
Unlike typical moles, which are brown to black in pigmentation, colorless or flesh-colored moles can blend in with the surrounding skin, making them easy to overlook. However, these seemingly benign growths can in some cases pose a risk, as they can be early-stage melanoma or other forms of skin cancer.
It is essential to pay attention to any new or existing mole that lacks pigment, especially if it has irregular edges, asymmetry, or changes in size or shape over time.
