06 February 2024 , 19:00
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How well do you really know your own body? It's vital we get more familiar with our anatomy to protect our health. And there's a test you can complete to spot abnormalities on your skin quickly.
If you stand in front of a mirror, you won't be able to see your whole body, but we should all get into the habit of checking things we haven't seen before; acquainting ourselves with our anatomy properly so we can spot any changes with ease.
Experts at Cancer Research UK recommend that you complete a 'mirror test' regularly, to look over your skin to see whether there are any changes. But what exactly are you looking out for? According to Cancer Research UK, there are several abnormalities you need to watch out for, to rule out skin cancer.
A sore that doesn't heal
The sore can look see-through, shiny and pink or pearly white. It can also look red. It may feel sore, rough, and have raised edges.
Ulcer
Look out for an area of skin that has broken down (an ulcer) and doesn't heal within four weeks, and you can't think of a reason for this change.
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A lump
This might be small, slow-growing, shiny and pink or red.
Red patches on your skin
These red patches could also be itchy. This could be due to other non-cancerous skin conditions. But get it checked to make sure.
Freckles or moles
A change to a mole or freckle can be a sign of another type of skin cancer called melanoma.
Cancer Research UK said that to spot skin cancer early, it's important to know what's normal for you, and how your skin usually looks. That way, if you spot something, you'll be able to realise whether it's always been there, or whether it could be something to be concerned about.
To look at areas you can't see easily, you could try using a handheld mirror and reflect your skin onto another mirror. Or you could get your partner or a friend to look. This is very important if you're regularly outside in the sun for work or leisure.
They also recommended you take a photo of anything that doesn't look quite right, possibly with a ruler or tape measure next to it so you have an accurate idea about size, and you can tell whether it's changing. Share these pictures with your GP.
If you have any concerns, book an appointment with your GP.