Many people have moles, which are elevated spots on the skin.

In most cases they are harmless, but they do need to be monitored due to a greater risk of complications from sun exposure.

People over the age of 50 who have numerous moles have a higher risk of developing skin cancer and should visit their healthcare provider for check-ups.

Although 11,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year, and this figure is set to double by 2045, the good news is that 90% of cases can be curable with early detection.

Heather Feeney is a pharmacist with Boots, who offer a mole scanning service.

She joined us for our weekly medical consultation to discuss what changes to look out for in moles.

Heather recommends using the the ABCDE rule:

A - Asymmetry: check if the mole is the same on both sides

B - Border: make sure the border is well defined

C - Colour: look for changes in colour

D - Diameter: check that the diameter is not in excess of 5-6 mm

E - Evolving: look for changes in shape or size, or any itching or bleeding

Listen to the interview in full by pressing the play button on this page.