Article: Of Moles and Melanoma

OF MOLES AND MELANOMA
by
Sandra Surbrugg M.D.

While dermatologists have long suspected a link between moles and melanoma, new research has established a relationship between the number of moles and melanoma risk. The study, conducted by the National Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, involved more than 1,700 patients, nearly half of whom had melanoma. Researchers found that those with one abnormal mole had a twofold risk for melanoma, while those with ten of more moles had 12 times the risk. Moles were labeled "abnormal" if they were larger than 6 millimeters in size (a standard pencil eraser is 6mm), flat or partly flat, and had two or more of the following characteristics: variable pigmentation, asymmetrical outline, and indistinct borders.

If you have many growths that make it difficult for you to keep track of which are old, which are new, and which are undergoing change, see your doctor and ask about having these growths mapped. Your dermatologist can do a skin survey to identify and locate each nevus and thus have a record to refer to to see if there has been any change in them. Our new mole watcher program offers digital computer photography to help. If you have any growths that look suspicious, have your dermatologist evaluate them. To schedule an appointment, phone the CHEYENNE SKIN CLINIC at 635-0226. Our offices are located at 123 Western Hills Boulevard. New patients are welcome.

P.S. People with abnormal moles, in particular, are encouraged to have their skin examined by the dermatologist at least once yearly.