Understanding Skin Cancer – Your Guide to Early Detection

Australia holds the unfortunate title of having one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, with two in three Australians diagnosed by age 70 (Cancer Council of Australia). At Skin Experts, we believe education and early detection are key to combating this prevalent disease. Here’s what you need to know about skin cancer and how our clinic can help protect your skin.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally, primarily due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, which damages DNA and triggers uncontrolled cell growth. The main types include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, appearing as pearly bumps or persistent sores. Rarely spreads but can cause disfigurement if untreated.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Presents as red, scaly patches or sores that may bleed. Can metastasize if not addressed early.
• Melanoma: The most dangerous form, often resembling moles with irregular borders or colors. Responsible for most skin cancer deaths but highly treatable when caught early.
• Actinic Keratoses (AK): Precancerous scaly growths that can progress to SCC if untreated.
• Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC): A rare, aggressive cancer with a 30% mortality rate.

Why is Early Detection Critical?

In Australia, over 1 million people are treated for skin cancer annually, including 16,000 melanoma cases. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, with over 90% five-year survival rates for early-stage melanoma and near-100% for non-melanoma cancers. Regular skin checks and self-examinations help identify changes before they become serious.

Signs to Watch For

Use the ABCDE rule to monitor for melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half of a mole doesn’t match the other.
• Border: Irregular or ragged edges.
• Color: Multiple or uneven colors (brown, black, red, white, blue).
• Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser size), though smaller melanomas occur.
• Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms like itching or bleeding.

Other warning signs include non-healing sores, scaly patches, or new growths persisting for 2-3 weeks.

Who’s at Risk?

Australia’s high UV levels and outdoor lifestyle increase skin cancer risk, particularly for those with:

• Fair skin that burns easily.
• A history of severe sunburns (95% of melanomas are sun-related).
• A personal or family history of skin cancer.
• Numerous or atypical moles.
• Tanning bed use or immunosuppression.

How Skin Experts Can Help

At Skin Experts, we offer comprehensive skin cancer checks using advanced dermoscopy and digital imaging to detect abnormalities early. Our services include:

• Full Body Skin Checks: Thorough head-to-toe examinations, recommended annually.
• Mole Mapping: High-resolution imaging to track mole changes, ideal for high-risk patients.
• Cryotherapy and Other Treatments: Non-invasive and surgical options to address precancerous and cancerous lesions.

Prevention Tips

Follow the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide campaign:

• Slip on protective clothing.
• Slop on SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
• Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Slide on UV-protective sunglasses.

Perform monthly self-examinations and schedule regular professional skin checks with Skin Experts to stay proactive.

Take Action Today

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when caught early. Book your skin cancer check with Skin Experts today by calling (03) 9020 1448 or booking online. In collaboration with Fitzroy North Doctors, we’re here to keep your skin healthy and give you peace of mind.