Project Safety

Sun Awareness

MD Anderson Cancer Center

ABCDE Rule

• A for asymmetry – one half of the mole does not match the other half

• B for border irregularity – ragged edges, notched, blurred

• C for color – pigmentation is not uniform within each mole – blues, blacks, red, browns

• D for diameter – greater than 6 mm (pencil eraser)

• E for elevation (or evolution) – raised surface

There is no safe way to tan

• Wear sunscreen – SPF 15 or higher• Avoid midday sun• Cover up• Beware of reflected light• Be careful at higher altitudes• Avoid tanning beds• Medicine interaction• Avoid sunburns• Examine your skin regularly