How we create our content

CheckMole is a medical education platform. We take the accuracy and reliability of our content seriously because skin cancer is a life-or-death topic where misinformation can delay diagnosis.

Our editorial principles

Evidence-based. Every medical claim on CheckMole is supported by peer-reviewed research, clinical guidelines from dermatological societies (AAD, BAD, SBD, DDG), or consensus statements from organizations like the WHO and Skin Cancer Foundation.

Written for patients, not clinicians. We translate clinical dermatology into language that anyone can understand — without oversimplifying or losing accuracy. If a concept requires nuance, we include it.

No fearmongering, no false reassurance. We present risks proportionally. We do not exaggerate danger to drive engagement, and we do not minimize genuine warning signs. When something needs a dermatologist, we say so clearly.

Inclusive. Skin cancer affects all skin types. Our content specifically addresses how conditions present on different skin tones, because most existing resources only show examples on white skin — a gap that contributes to delayed diagnosis in people of color.

How we write and review content

Research. Each article begins with a review of current clinical literature, practice guidelines, and epidemiological data. We prioritize systematic reviews and meta-analyses when available.

Writing. Content is written using the latest evidence, structured for readability, and designed to answer the specific questions patients actually search for — not what textbooks think they should ask.

Review. Medical accuracy is verified against primary sources. Statistics are cross-referenced with authoritative databases (SEER, Cancer Research UK, IARC). Claims are cited to their source.

Updates. Medical knowledge evolves. We review and update content when new guidelines are published, significant studies change clinical consensus, or we identify areas that need clarification.

Our sources

We draw from peer-reviewed dermatology and oncology journals, clinical practice guidelines from major dermatological societies, government health agencies (CDC, NHS, WHO), cancer registries and epidemiological databases, and established medical education resources.

We do not cite unverified sources, anecdotal evidence, or content from websites without editorial oversight. When we reference statistics, we provide the context needed to interpret them correctly.

What CheckMole is not

Not a diagnostic tool. CheckMole provides educational screening tools based on clinical criteria (like the ABCDE rule). These help you decide whether to see a dermatologist — they do not replace a dermatologist. No app, website, or AI can diagnose skin cancer. Only a biopsy examined by a pathologist can provide a definitive diagnosis.

Not medical advice. Our content is educational. It is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation. If you are concerned about a mole or skin lesion, see a dermatologist.

Not sponsored by pharmaceutical or device companies. CheckMole does not accept sponsored content or allow advertisers to influence our medical information.

Available languages

CheckMole is available in English, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Mexico), Japanese, and German. Translations are not machine-generated — each language version is written with attention to local medical terminology, healthcare system references, and regional epidemiological context.

Contact

If you find an error in our content, have a suggestion for improvement, or want to report outdated information, please contact us. Accuracy is our top priority and we appreciate corrections from medical professionals and patients alike.

Last updated: April 2026