Dr Amir Khan's five-word message to absolutely anyone who has moles

Dr Amir Khan, a well-known NHS GP and regular on ITV, has urged the public to pay close attention to their moles and other skin markings, issuing a clear and concise five-word message: "Get to know your moles." His advice comes after a live skin lesion clinic on ITV's This Morning, where he examined multiple individuals' skin for potential concerns. The session highlighted the importance of self-awareness regarding skin health, especially given the risk of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Khan emphasized that while most moles are harmless, some can become dangerous if they change in appearance or behavior. In his Instagram post accompanying the video, he outlined specific areas of the body that people often neglect when checking their skin, such as the back, scalp, behind the ears, the backs of the legs, and between the toes. These regions are frequently overlooked but can harbor suspicious growths that might otherwise go unnoticed. During the clinic, Khan noted that while the majority of the moles he observed were benign, one particular lesion raised concern and required further evaluation. This experience reinforced his belief that familiarity with one's own skin is essential. He advised viewers not to attempt self-diagnosis but to remain vigilant for any new or changing moles, particularly those that bleed, itch, fail to heal, or look different from others. The doctor also reminded the public that moles typically develop due to the clustering of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. These can appear anywhere on the skin, including less obvious locations like under the nails, and are influenced by factors such as sun exposure and genetic predisposition. Fair-skinned individuals and those with a family history of moles tend to have more of them. According to medical guidelines, it is critical to monitor for new moles appearing in adulthood or any alterations in existing ones. The NHS provides a helpful ABCDE guide to identify potential warning signs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving changes over time. If any of these characteristics are present, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Khan encouraged people to schedule appointments with their general practitioner if they notice any of the following symptoms: a mole that has changed in size, shape, or color; a mole that causes pain or itching; a mole that is inflamed, bleeding, or crusty; or a new or unusual mark that persists beyond a few weeks. Early detection of melanoma significantly improves treatment outcomes, and timely intervention can be lifesaving. The NHS underscores the importance of prompt action, stating that if a GP suspects melanoma, patients will be referred to a specialist within two weeks. This rapid response ensures that any potential issues are addressed swiftly, increasing the chances of successful treatment. As awareness around skin health grows, Khan's message serves as a reminder that proactive care can prevent serious conditions from developing. By encouraging individuals to take stock of their skin regularly, he aims to empower the public to recognize potential dangers and seek appropriate medical help when necessary. His efforts align with broader initiatives aimed at improving early diagnosis rates and reducing mortality linked to skin cancers.