British model Danielle Lloyd recently shared a deeply personal and emotional message with her fans on Instagram, revealing that she has been diagnosed with skin cancer. The 41-year-old, mother of five, expressed her shock at the diagnosis and explained that she would be undergoing surgery to determine whether the cancer had spread. In her emotional video, Lloyd emphasised the importance of staying vigilant about skin changes and consulting a healthcare professional if anything unusual is noticed.

As skin cancer cases rise globally, experts urge individuals to monitor their skin regularly for any signs of melanoma, a type of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. While skin cancer can affect anyone, knowing the early warning signs of melanoma and seeking prompt medical attention could save lives.

Skin cancer cases have been increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, with millions being diagnosed each year. Experts emphasise the importance of recognising the early signs of melanoma, which can develop on both sun-exposed and sun-protected areas of the skin. Melanoma is particularly dangerous because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. Danielle Lloyd’s decision to share her diagnosis has been lauded for raising awareness and encouraging others to be proactive about their skin health.

According to Dr Smriti Naswa Singh, Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetic Dermatologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund (Mumbai), melanoma is a form of skin cancer that develops when the melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin, begin to grow uncontrollably. While melanoma is most commonly associated with sun exposure, it can develop in areas that are rarely exposed to sunlight. Melanoma can appear as a new mole or change in an existing mole, making it crucial to stay alert to any changes in your skin.

Detecting melanoma early can make a significant difference in the outcome of the disease. Experts recommend regularly checking your skin for any new, changing, or unusual spots. The sooner melanoma is detected, the better the chances for successful treatment. Here are the key warning signs to look out for:

Asymmetry (A)

A common feature of melanomas is asymmetry. When you draw a line through the center of a melanoma, the two halves will not match, unlike symmetrical moles which are usually uniform in shape.

Border Irregularities (B)

Melanomas often have uneven, scalloped, or notched borders, while benign moles typically have smooth, well-defined edges.

Color Changes (C)

A melanoma can be multiple colors, often including different shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue. Benign moles are typically a single shade of brown.

Diameter (D)

Melanomas are often larger than 6mm in diameter, roughly the size of a pencil eraser. However, any unusual or darker spot, regardless of size, should be examined.

Evolving (E)

Any change in a mole’s size, shape, color, or texture may indicate the presence of melanoma. Symptoms like bleeding, itching, or crusting are also concerning signs.

Another valuable method for spotting melanoma is the "Ugly Duckling" sign, which highlights the fact that most of your moles should look similar to one another. If a mole stands out as significantly different from the rest, it may be an early sign of melanoma. This "ugly duckling" could be larger, smaller, lighter, or darker than surrounding moles. If you notice a lesion that is isolated with no surrounding moles for comparison, it may also be a sign of melanoma.

Danielle Lloyd’s message underscores the importance of regular skin checks, particularly for those at higher risk due to factors such as family history, excessive sun exposure, or previous instances of skin cancer. If you notice anything unusual on your skin, it is crucial to seek the advice of a dermatologist promptly. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is a serious health concern. However, with proper awareness and early intervention, it can be effectively managed. Danielle Lloyd’s brave decision to open up about her skin cancer diagnosis serves as an important reminder for everyone to monitor their skin and consult medical professionals when necessary. Taking the time to check your skin regularly and being proactive about potential signs could save your life.