Skin canc:er occurs when abnormal skin cells grow excessively, and is most often due to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The are some different kinds of skin canc:ers, the most d:eadly of which is melanoma. Melanoma accounts for less than 1 percent of all skin ca:ncers, but it makes up the vast majority of skin can:cer de:aths, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, even in places that are not usually exposed to the sun.

This is why it is so crucial to check your skin regularly, including the soles of your feet, between your fingers, and on your scalp. Use a full-length mirror with the aide of a hand mirror to check the trickier places, or ask a partner or a family member to do it for you. Most spots or moles are normal and harmless, so when checking your skin, remember your ABCDEs and look out for these five signs:

a) Asymmetry.

Look for moles or spots that are significantly asymmetrical in shape. Check whether one half matches the other.

b) Borders.

As per WebMD the borders of your moles should be relatively even. If they are ragged, notched or blurred, see your doctor.

c) Color.

A healthy mole has even coloring. Causes of concern are shades of brown or black, or patches of pink, white or red.

d) Diameter.

Melanoma can be tiny, but in general you should take note if you have have spots larger than 1/4 inch across, about the size of a pencil eraser.

e) Evolving.

Do you have any moles or freckles changing over time? These changes could include shape, size, or color. Also, you should look out for changes to the surface of the mole, like scaliness or scabbing, and even itchiness or bleeding. Try using this printable body map when you do you skin check, and note the moles that you think are significant with some details about their characteristics. Refer to the map with your next skin check so you can accurately track any changes on your skin.

Skin ca:ncer is all too common. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, each year there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of canc:ers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon. One in five Americans will develop skin ca:ncer in their lifetime, and someone di:es of melanoma every 54 minutes. That’s an estimated 9,730 melanoma de:aths in 2017. It is important that you limit your sun exposure and keep yourself well protected, including places like the scalp and the backs of the hands. Check your skin regularly and note any changes, and always remember the ABCDEs of skin ca:nc:ers.