Just spots, or something more?

The key is to discover suspicious skin lesions at an early stage. Check moles for A)symmetry, for irregular B)orders, for multiple C)olors, for a D)iameter larger than a pencil eraser and for E)volution which is an enlarging or new mole. These are the ABCDE's for self-screening.

It is important to keep checking for new or changing moles, particularly if you are at risk. Those that have had a melanoma removed may be cured but they are at high risk for recurrence of new melanomas. If you have a lot of moles it is very hard (impossible really) to be able to tell if new or changing ones are present though.

DermAlert is an image comparison software program developed through funding from the National Cancer Institute that is inexpensive and lets you use your digital camera in the privacy of your own home to find changing moles over time. Then you can point out the changes to your dermatologist. You can see details and demo at http://www.dermalert.com

"Blame it on the Melanoma"

I wish I would've known about this Melanoma Monday, what a great idea!

Anything that will make you fart is good for your colon.

Eat a full can of sauerkraut every day.

Drink a 12-ounce glass of apple cider each day.