Do all moles turn into skin cancer?

No, not all moles turn into skin cancer. In fact, the vast majority of moles are benign and harmless skin growths. It is important to recognize that most cases of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, do not start from a pre-existing mole, but often appear in areas of skin that look completely normal [1]. Although moles are very common, with most adults having between 10 and 40 moles, it is rare for a normal mole to turn into cancer [1] [2].

Types of Moles and Their Relationship to Skin Cancer Risk

The behavior of moles varies based on their physical characteristics. A common mole is usually round or oval, less than 5 millimeters in diameter, and has a uniform color (pink, brown, or tan) [1]. These moles are not cancerous.

On the other hand, there are "atypical moles," also known as "dysplastic nevi." These moles may be larger (more than 5 millimeters), have irregular borders, or a mixed color [1]. It is crucial to understand that atypical moles are not cancerous in themselves, but their presence acts as a risk factor that increases the likelihood of developing melanoma in the future, as the risk increases with the number of these moles a person has [3]. Regular screening and medical follow-up are essential for anyone who has atypical moles to identify any early changes [1].

How to Detect Warning Signs Using the ABCDE Rule

Since melanoma can appear as a new mole or a change in an existing one, monitoring the skin is an essential preventive practice. The ABCDE rule is used as a reference tool to help individuals note suspicious changes that warrant a visit to a specialist [1]:

• A (Asymmetry): If one half of the mole does not match the other half in shape.
• B (Border): If the edges are irregular, ragged, or blurry.
• C (Color): Presence of variations in color such as black, brown, or red, or the appearance of white or blue areas.
• D (Diameter): Any change in size; melanomas are usually larger than 6 millimeters [1].
• E (Evolving): Any noticeable change in shape, size, color, or texture over the last few weeks or months, including itching or bleeding [1].

You can see additional details on this matter via the Mole Guide: How to use the ABCDE rule for early detection of skin cancer (Arabic) to deepen your understanding of proper self-examination.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Most moles do not require medical intervention or surgical removal. However, a dermatologist should be consulted in specific cases, such as the appearance of a new mole that does not resemble other moles on your body, or if there are clear changes in an existing mole (change in color, size, or the onset of itching or bleeding) [3].

Individuals with a family history of melanoma or those who have a large number of atypical moles may require more frequent periodic check-ups (every 3 to 6 months) based on a doctor's assessment [1]. Remember that early diagnosis is key, as doctors take a small biopsy when there is suspicion to examine the tissue in a laboratory, which is the only reliable procedure to determine the presence of cancer cells or not [1].

Medical references

• Common Moles, Dysplastic Nevi, and Risk of Melanoma
• Moles
• What Does a Mole Look Like?