If a mole is slightly raised, could it be cancerous?

Hi Anon and Welcome to EmpowHER -

Thanks for your question. Has the mole you are asking about always been slightly raised, or is this a recent change?

You are smart in seeking information. Skin cancer is on the rise, especially among young females. From the 1970s to the early 2000s, incidences of skin cancers increased by nearly 61 percent for women ages 15 to 29, according to the American Cancer Society.

In terms of moles, signs that they may be cancerous include changes in color, size, shape or a mole that begins to bleed or has an irregular border.Another indicator is redness or tenderness around a mole.

Skin cancer is most often spotted on sun-exposed areas — scalp, neck, face, lips, ears, arms, hands and legs — but it can develop anywhere on your body. It can show up in unusual places, such as between toes, on eyelids, underneath nails and even around the genital area. Skin cancer also can occur on any type of skin tone, even dark-pigmented complexions, and affect individuals of any race or sex. Some skin cancer signs may show up suddenly while others may develop gradually.

If your more has any of the warning signs of skin cancer, see your doctor or a dermatologist as soon as possible. Early detection just may save your life!

Let us know if this helps and what you learn if you see your doctor.

Best,

Pat