Melanoma Prevention and Early Detection Plan

Understanding Your Risk Factors

• Family History: Document any family members who have had melanoma
• Personal Features: Light skin, blonde/red hair, blue eyes increase risk
• Sun Exposure History: Previous sunburns, outdoor activities, tanning bed use
• Previous Skin Lesions: History of atypical moles or non-melanoma skin cancers

Monthly Self-Examination Protocol

The ABCDE Rule for Mole Assessment

• Asymmetry: Look for uneven shapes
• Border: Check for irregular or jagged edges
• Color: Notice multiple colors or changes
• Diameter: Monitor moles larger than 6mm
• Evolving: Track any changes over time

Prevention Strategies

Daily Sun Protection

1. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen
2. Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors
3. Wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
4. Seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM

Professional Skin Checks

• Schedule annual full-body skin examinations
• Document dates of examinations
• Keep photos of concerning lesions

Action Plan

When to Contact Your Dermatologist

• New moles appearing after age 40
• Changes in existing moles
• Bleeding or itching lesions
• Any concerning skin changes

Emergency Signs

• Rapidly growing lesions
• Dark black or multi-colored moles
• Pain or tenderness
• Ulceration or bleeding

Documentation

Keep a log of:

1. Self-examination dates
2. Professional examination dates
3. Photos of concerning areas
4. Changes observed
5. Follow-up appointments