Alphega Pharmacy has launched a pilot mole screening service in 25 of its UK pharmacies to help detect cases of malignant melanoma. Trained pharmacy staff carry out Alphega Pharmacy’s Mole Scanning Service by scanning moles on a customer’s body with a SIAscope, which emits a light that penetrates 2mm below the skin’s surface.

One scan provides five different multi-coloured images that reflect the depth and shape of the mole. Provided in conjunction with ScreenCancer UK, the procedure is noninvasive and quick to perform. The images are sent to a ScreenCancer UK dermatology specialist for review and patients receive their results within two weeks.

The service is available to anyone concerned about a new mole or a change to an existing mole.