I have an old mole on my lower abdomen. it is dark brown, oval shaped, and raised. earlier this week i noticed that it has started peeling and looks red under where it peeled. should i be worried?

It's not a bad idea : You should have even an old mole examined by a dermatologist, especially when it's going through changes. Good luck from nyc.

Yes.: Any mole, or skin growth that starts changing character after staying the same for many years, has a likely chance of meaning it has become malignant. It is an indication to have it evaluated by a dermatologist (or experienced generalist) and have it biopsied or removed entirely. Most skin cancers are basal or squamous cell and are easily rx. Malignant melanoma is most serious, so don't wait.

Change: Moles that evolve or change are sending a message to you to get them checked by your primary care doctor or dermatologist. Such changes may indicate development of melanoma or other kinds of skin cancer.