The answer

There is a chance that this new blemish Katie has noticed could be melanoma – a form of skin cancer – and the earlier it is picked up, the easier it is to treat. The following list can help identify signs of melanoma:

• A – asymmetrical mole, i.e. irregular in shape
• B – border is blurred or has jagged edges
• C – colour is speckly or patchy, rather than uniform
• D – diameter is often larger than 7mm
• E – evolving in appearance rather than staying the same.

Basically melanomas are changes to normal skin, which may be one of the above; a dark area or abnormal new mole; or a mole that itches, tingles, bleeds or develops a crust. In women, the most common site is on the leg, while in men the most common location is on the back. However, melanomas can occur anywhere on the body, including in the eye, under nails, and on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. Any of these signs should be checked out by a GP.