Hello and thanks for your post,

I can understand that it is frustrating moving to this country to find that some of the services that you had in Brazil are not available here

We do have some information on our website about why all patients are not screened for melanoma which you can see here

Recognizing what is normal for your body and being able to report any changes is important. I appreciate that keeping an eye on moles when you have a lot of them can be difficult.  Simple photography can help to keep a record for comparison. As well as the  ABCDE rule which you can read about here

 The NHS website has a mole assessment tool here

To decide who to refer to a NHS dermatologist (skin specialist), GPs also use a weighted seven point check list which includes a change in size, an irregular shape, an irregular colour, a largest diameter of 7mm or more, inflammation, oozing and a change in sensation. You can read more about how this works here

We do have some information on what happens if the GP does refer you to a dermatologist here

A lot of the bigger chemists such as Boots and Superdrug have a mole screening service which you may find helpful to look in to.

Some people concerned about moles consider private mole mapping/monitoring services, but they can be expensive particularly if you are being checked regularly. The British Association of Dermatology doesn't think that these are better then the opinion of a dermatologist. See what they say on their website here

One option is that you consider paying to see a private dermatologist to ask their advice but again this can be expensive. You would need to be referred through your GP to a private dermatologist if this something that you want to consider. We can't recommend a dermatologist but to get an idea of what it may cost you could have a look at this private website here

I do hope some of these links maybe helpful to you but you are more then welcome to ring us if you want to go through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the Best,

Catherine

Hello Catherine,

Thank you very much for the information, it is very helpful.

I confess it is a little bit frustrating for me that there are no preventive actions for melanoma through the NHS. I guess I should pay for private screening then.