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Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, affecting 800,000 Americans each year, and is actually the most common of all cancers.

Those most affected by this disease tend to be older men who had worked outdoors; however, more and more women are developing basal call carcinoma than had in the past. 

It's important to check your own skin about once a month for the typical pattern of moles, freckles, and other marks on your skin.  This will enable you to notice any unusual changes. 

Using a full-length mirror, you should be able to notice any changes in the moles and other discolorations of your skin.  Have a family member check the areas that you cannot see.

Carcinoma can be found and treated early. Symptoms for basal cell carcinoma include:

• An Open Sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and remains open for three or more weeks.

• A Reddish Patch or irritated area, frequently occurring on the chest, shoulders, arms, or legs.
• A Shiny Bump or nodule, that is pearly or translucent and is often pink, red, or white. The bump can also be tan, black, or brown, especially in dark-haired people, and can be confused with a mole.
• A Pink Growth with a slightly elevated rolled border and a crusted indentation in the center. As the growth slowly enlarges, tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface.
• A Scar-like Area which is white, yellow or waxy, and often has poorly defined borders. The skin itself appears shiny and taut.
• Spots on the skin that change in size, shape, or color
• ABCD rule can also help tell a normal mole from a melanoma:

A: asymmetry – one half of the mole does not match the other half.

B: border irregularity – the edges of the mole are ragged or notched.

C: color – the color of the mole is not the same all over. There may be shades of tan,

brown, or black, and sometimes patches of red, blue, or white.

D: diameter – the mole is wider than about 1/4 inch (although doctors are now finding more melanomas that are smaller).

If you notice any of the above listed symptoms, you will want to see your doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options.