Melanoma usually starts in a part of the body that has had occasional, but intense, exposure to the sun. Often it is where the skin has been burned by the sun. The first sign of melanoma is a change in the skin. This may be:

• a change to an existing mole or freckle. This may mean it starts to grow, it changes in shape, or it changes colour. These are major signs of melanoma
  
   
• the appearance of a new mole, especially one that is dark brown or black
  
   
• a sore that will not heal
  
   
• the growth of a lump. It may be small. It could be firm and red. It may bleed, ooze or get crusty.

Melanoma does not usually cause pain, but it may feel itchy.

Most changes to the skin are not cancer, but if any symptom lasts longer than two weeks, see your GP.