Cancer

Skin Cancer — Warning Signs and Prevention

How to recognize the early warning signs of skin cancer and steps you can take to lower your risk.

2 min read

Intro

Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early, but prevention and vigilance are critical. Knowing what to look for — and how to protect yourself — can save lives.

Key Points

  • Most skin cancers are linked to UV exposure.
  • Warning signs include new, changing, or non-healing spots.
  • The ABCDE rule helps identify suspicious moles.
  • Prevention relies on sunscreen, protective clothing, and skin checks.
  • Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) may offer additional protection for high-risk people.

Warning Signs

  • New or changing mole — especially if irregular in shape or color.
  • Sores that don’t heal — persistent ulcers or bleeding spots.
  • Scaly or rough patches — may indicate SCC.
  • Shiny or pearly bumps — typical of BCC.
  • ABCDE rule for melanoma:
    • Asymmetry
    • Border irregularity
    • Color variation
    • Diameter >6mm
    • Evolving over time

Prevention

  • Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30+ daily, reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
  • Clothing: Hats, long sleeves, sunglasses.
  • Avoid tanning beds: Artificial UV is just as harmful as sunlight.
  • Shade: Especially between 10am–4pm when UV is strongest.
  • Self-checks: Monthly skin checks and yearly dermatology exams if high-risk.

Nicotinamide and Prevention

Recent large-scale research suggests nicotinamide (vitamin B3) may reduce skin cancer risk, especially for squamous cell carcinoma. It may be considered for people with a history of skin cancer, but it’s not a replacement for sun protection.

FAQ

Q: What are the first signs of skin cancer?
A: New or changing moles, sores that don’t heal, scaly patches, or shiny bumps.

Q: What is the ABCDE rule for melanoma?
A: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving over time.

Q: How can I lower my risk of skin cancer?
A: Daily sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding tanning beds, and skin checks.

Q: Does vitamin B3 help prevent skin cancer?
A: Research suggests nicotinamide may reduce risk, but it’s not a substitute for sun protection.

Further Reading