Reviewed by The Dermatology House Calls Clinical Team · Last reviewed July 2026
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the risk rises with age. The encouraging news is that when skin cancer is found early, it is highly treatable. Knowing what to look for, and getting regular skin checks, makes a real difference.
Why skin cancer risk rises with age
Years of sun exposure add up over a lifetime, and most skin cancers are diagnosed in older adults, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. That makes routine skin checks especially important for seniors.
The ABCDEs of melanoma
Dermatologists often recommend that patients use a simple checklist to help identify moles that might need a professional evaluation:
- A. Asymmetry. One half of the spot does not match the other.
- B. Border. Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
- C. Color. The color is uneven or includes several shades.
- D. Diameter. The spot is larger than a pencil eraser (around 6mm), though melanomas can be smaller.
- E. Evolving. The spot is changing in size, shape, or color.
Other warning signs to watch for
Beyond the ABCDEs, tell your provider about a sore that will not heal, a new growth, a spot that itches or bleeds, or one that simply looks different from the rest of your spots, sometimes called the “ugly duckling.”
When should you get a skin check?
Any new or changing spot is worth having evaluated, and it is a good idea to talk with your provider about how often you should have a full-body skin exam. Our providers bring skin exams right to your home.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not medical advice, and it is not a diagnosis. If you notice a new or changing spot, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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