Alphega Pharmacy has launched a pilot mole screening service in 25 of its UK pharmacies this summer, to help detect cases of malignant melanoma. 

According to Cancer Research UK, skin cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK. More than 2,000 people died from malignant melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, in 2012.

Provided in conjunction with ScreenCancer UK, Alphega Pharmacy's Mole Scanning Service involves scanning mole(s) on the patient’s body, using a SIAscope – an imaging device which emits light that penetrates 2mm below the surface of the skin.

One scan provides five different multi-coloured images that reflect the depth and shape of the mole. The procedure is non-invasive, painless and quick to perform.

The images are then sent to a ScreenCancer UK Dermatology Specialist for review. Patients receive their results within two weeks.

The service is available to anyone concerned about a new mole or change in an existing one.

Those who are most at risk include people with fair skin that burns easily, lots of moles or freckles, red or fair hair, anyone who was frequently sunburnt as a child or has a family history of skin cancer. Patients being treated with immunosuppressive drugs are also at higher risk of developing a melanoma.

Customers are also advised to check for changes to moles by using the A-E guide:

 A – Asymmetry: Irregular shape – the two halves should be symmetrical
 B – Borders: Unclear, irregular or ragged boundaries against normal skin
 C – Colour: Changes in colour – especially if it is black or blue or uneven
 D – Diameter: More than 5-6mm in diameter and changing in size
 E – Evolving: Change in shape, size, and colour, itching or bleeding of an existing mole or if a new mole/spot appears.