As we recognize Skin Cancer Awareness Month — beginning with Melanoma Monday — we honor the many patients and families whose lives have been touched by melanoma and other skin cancers. It’s a privilege for our physicians at Total Dermatology to walk with patients through every step of their skin‑health journey, from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, treatment, and surgical care. Our nearly fifty‑year foundation, built by Dr. Gary Monheit and shaped by his training under Dr. Fredric Mohs, continues to guide our commitment to expert, compassionate care in the Birmingham community.

In April, we were grateful to join our community at the annual Steps Against Melanoma 5K — including our patients, families affected by skin cancer, and supporters from across the area. Seeing so many people come together in the name of prevention, care, and hope was truly inspiring, and we were honored to participate and sponsor the event.

May Is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month – Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma

The ABCDEs of Melanoma help you spot warning signs early: A – Asymmetry, B – Border irregularity, C – Color variation, D – Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and E – Evolving. We also add S – Schedule: if anything looks concerning, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

You’ll find our ABCDEs graphic below to reference during your at‑home skin checks, along with our five‑step guide later in this newsletter. These tools support early detection, but they don’t replace an annual full‑body exam by a board‑certified dermatologist. If something looks questionable, please book a visit promptly. For your convenience, we offer same‑week availability, with morning, lunchtime, and late‑afternoon appointments to fit your schedule.

Performing an At-Home Skin Check 

1. Check face, ears, and scalp: Use a mirror to examine your face, ears, and neck, then part your hair in sections to inspect the scalp.
2. Scan chest, neck, and stomach: Look over your chest and stomach carefully; women should also check the skin beneath the breasts.
3. Review arms, hands, and nails: Inspect underarms, both sides of your arms, palms, and the skin under and around your fingernails.
4. Check back and shoulders: Use a hand mirror to view the back of your neck, shoulders, upper back, and lower back.
5. Examine legs and feet: Look at the front and back of your legs, the soles of your feet, and between each toe.

If you notice any new or changing spots or if you feel uncertain, schedule a visit so one of our dermatologists can take a closer look.