Is there any easy way to tell if a mole should get examined?

Does it concern you?: If you can look at a mole and it concerns you then you should have it examined by a dermatologist. Using the "abcde" at home screening method can help you single out one or moles that should be looked at. Of course, bleeding and pain or non-healing are also reasons to be examined.

Skin cancer: American academy of dermatology: asymmetry: 1 half is unlike the other. Border: irregular, scalloped or poorly defined. Color: varied with shades of tan, brown or black; or white, red or blue. Diameter: > 6 mm. Evolving: mole /skin lesion looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color. An irregular mole that itches, bleeds or is painful is worrisome for possible cancer.

If it has changed!: If you are concerned about a mole have it checked by a dermatologist. Especially if you have a family history of melanoma or have a had severe sunburns in the past. He/she will check your skin head/toe and educate you as to what to look for (abcde's). You can also get a free skin check in your community, check the skin cancer foundation website. There is also lots of useful info on the web site.