Moles

Moles: Overview

Also called nevi

Moles are common. Almost every adult has a few moles. Adults who have light skin often have more moles. They may have 10 to 40 moles on their skin. This is normal.

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You should not be overly worried about your moles. But you should know:

• A type of skin cancer, melanoma, can grow in or near a mole.

• If caught early and treated, melanoma can be cured.

• The first sign of melanoma is often a change to a mole — or a new mole on your skin.

• Checking your skin can help you find melanoma early. A dermatologist can perform medical skin checks and show you how to examine your skin and tell you how often you should check your skin.