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Skin Cancer Awareness: Know Your ABCDEs

Early Detection Matters in Las Vegas & Pahrump

At Vital Wound Care, we don’t just treat chronic wounds we also educate our patients and community about early warning signs of more serious health concerns. Skin cancer, especially melanoma, can often be overlooked in its early stages. But recognizing the signs early can save lives.

This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing the ABCDEs of skin cancer to help you and your loved ones stay informed and safe. Whether you're in Las Vegas, Pahrump, or the surrounding areas, this guide is for you.

Wound Care and Skin Cancer: An Overlooked Connection

Many people associate skin cancer with sunburns or tanning beds. But what often goes unnoticed are non-healing skin lesions that mimic other chronic wounds. In our work across Las Vegas and Pahrump, we’ve seen cases where a long-standing wound was actually a warning sign of something more dangerous—like melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma.

If a wound isn’t healing within 30 days, especially if it’s changing in appearance, don’t ignore it. Our mobile wound care team can come directly to your home to assess, treat, and guide you toward proper diagnosis if needed.

What Are the ABCDEs of Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer can start small, and recognizing the early signs is crucial. The ABCDEs are a simple, powerful tool to assess suspicious moles or skin changes.

A = Asymmetry

Creates a stoma from the colon (large intestine). Output is typically formed or semi-formed stool.

B = Border

A healthy mole has a smooth, well-defined edge. Irregular, jagged, or blurred borders can signal trouble.

C = Color

Moles should be one consistent color. If you see multiple shades brown, black, red, white, or blue—it’s worth getting it evaluated.

D = Diameter

Melanomas are typically larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller when first detected.

E = Evolving

Any mole that’s growing, changing color, shape, elevation, or starts to itch, bleed, or crust needs immediate medical attention.

Wound Care That Goes Beyond Bandages

At Vital Wound Care, we believe in looking deeper. We don’t just treat the wound we assess why it’s not healing. Our licensed nurse practitioners and wound care specialists are trained to identify red flags and help patients connect with dermatologists or specialists if something looks suspicious.

We offer:
Same-day and next-day wound visits in Las Vegas and Pahrump
Personalized care plans with follow-up tracking
Advanced diagnostic tools and clinical wound assessments
24-hour documentation sent to your physician or home health agency
Whether you're in North Las Vegas, Henderson, or Pahrump, we come to you no waiting rooms, no delays.

What to Do If You Notice a Suspicious Spot

Partner with the Wound Care Team That Puts Your Health First

If you notice any changes in a mole, or if you have a wound that isn’t healing, reach out to us right away. The earlier we intervene, the better your chances of healing and possibly preventing something far more serious.

Your skin tells a story. Let’s make sure it’s not one of missed opportunities.

Contact Vital Wound Care Today

Skin Health and Wound Healing—Together, in One Visit
📍 Proudly serving: Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, and Pahrump
📞 Call us: (702) 899-0100
📧 Email:
info@vitalwoundcare.com

Frequently Asked Questions About Skin Cancer & Wound Care in Las Vegas and Pahrump

Can a non-healing wound be a sign of skin cancer?

Yes, it can. While many chronic wounds are related to poor circulation or pressure, some non-healing skin lesions may actually be undiagnosed skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. If a wound persists for more than 30 days, especially if it bleeds, grows, or changes in appearance, it should be evaluated by a specialist.

What types of skin cancer are most likely to appear as wounds?

Squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma can both appear as sores that don’t heal or that repeatedly scab and bleed. Melanoma can also present in unusual ways, especially in people with darker skin tones. At Vital Wound Care, we assess every wound thoroughly to rule out these concerns.

Do you offer skin assessments at home in Las Vegas and Pahrump?

Yes! Vital Wound Care offers mobile wound assessments in the comfort of your home throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Pahrump. If we find a wound that appears abnormal, we’ll help coordinate follow-up care with your doctor or a dermatologist.

Is skin cancer treatable if caught early?

Absolutely. Early detection is key to successful treatment. When skin cancer is caught in its early stages especially before it spreads it’s often treated with minor procedures or creams. That’s why regular skin checks and early wound evaluations are so important.

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