A habit to practice once a month for early detection of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that even if you have a regular annual skin check-up, you should have monthly skin checks. This is especially important for people with weakened immune systems, those who have had skin cancer before, or those with a family history of skin cancer, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

People at high risk of skin cancer should use a mirror to self-examine their skin once a month.

The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that looks like a red or pale lump. It may resemble a sore on the skin but doesn't heal. This type of cancer grows slowly on the skin and is the least dangerous. People over 50 are at a higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma than younger people.

Meanwhile, squamous cell carcinoma also grows slowly, is red in color, and looks scaly. Unlike other types of skin cancer, this type can develop in areas of skin that are rarely exposed to sunlight. The cancerous lesion may appear as a new spot on the skin or develop on an existing mole. Squamous cell carcinoma is red, pink, brown, or black. They grow quickly and may bleed over time.

The American Cancer Society recommends checking for freckles and moles. Or any unusual spots that appear on the skin. If it's cancerous, it will have signs such as irregular edges, asymmetry between the two moles, and unusual color. In terms of size, the tumor is usually larger than the tip of a pencil eraser and grows gradually over time.

Self-examination of the skin is best done after you shower. You'll need a mirror large enough to help you see hard-to-reach areas like your back, neck, ears, and buttocks. Start with your face, shoulders, armpits, arms, chest, and stomach, then move on to other areas. Women should also check the skin under their breasts, according to Healthline .

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