When was your last skin check?
One Australian is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes. Skin cancers are highly treatable and early detection saves lives. If you have any concerns about your skin, be SkinSafe and book your full skin check today.
One Australian is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes. Skin cancers are highly treatable and early detection saves lives. If you have any concerns about your skin, be SkinSafe and book your full skin check today.
Skin cancer occurs when the cells in the skin undergo abnormal changes, leading to uncontrolled growth. Our skin is composed of various cell types, and skin cancer can develop from different types of skin cells. The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which are often referred to as non-melanoma skin cancers.
Melanoma is another, more aggressive type that arises from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Unfortunately, Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world. It is the most common cancer in the 20-39 age group, the second most common cancer for men, and third most common for women. Skin cancer can also occur in body areas that do not see the sun, such as in between your fingers and toes or on the soles of your feet, which is why SkinSafe offer full head-to-toe skin checks.
2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with a skin cancer during their lifetime, with the highest rate of incidence in the world. Nearly all skin cancers are very treatable, but early detection is crucial.
The primary risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, predominantly from the sun (or prior history of tanning bed use). UV radiation can damage the DNA within skin cells, leading to mutations that can trigger uncontrolled cell growth. When the DNA in skin cells is damaged by UV radiation or other factors (such as certain genetic predispositions), the cells may start to grow and divide uncontrollably. As these abnormal cells continue to multiply, they can form lumps or patches on the skin known as tumours. In the case of BCC and SCC, these tumours are often locally invasive but tend to grow slowly. Melanoma, on the other hand, can be more aggressive and has a higher potential to spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.
Early detection helps prevent or limit the spread of cancer cells to vital organs, improving the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival. While SkinSafe recommends routine skin check with your doctor, consider booking an appointment sooner if you discover any of the following when examining your own skin:
Please note that not all skin cancers look the same, and some melanomas do not fit the guidelines above. If you have any concerns, please contact us.
All Australians are at risk of developing skin cancer due to the high levels of UV radiation we experience. However, some Australians are at a higher risk and should consider more frequent skin checks with their doctor. Consider if you meet one of the following criteria:
SkinSafe recommends regular skin self-examinations, routine professional skin checks, and adopting sun-safe practices for the early detection and prevention of skin cancer.
Patients will be provided with a modesty gown and can request a chaperone for the examination. During your full skin check the doctor will use a dermatoscope, which is a skin microscope with polarised and non-polarised light, to conduct a comprehensive examination of your entire body. The doctor will assess moles, lesions, and other skin features, providing you with a detailed understanding of your skin’s condition.
Any points of interest will be recorded, and a biopsy may be taken should detailed pathology be required. Sometimes photographs need to be taken and they may be shared with other health professionals for diagnostic or training purposes. If you have concerns about photographs please speak to our team beforehand or on the day of your appointment. The entire process is non-invasive and your privacy is always respected. Your doctor will provide you with personalised advice depending on your history and risk factors. To facilitate a thorough examination, it is recommended that make-up (especially foundation) and nail polish are not worn to the consultation.
One Australian is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes. Skin cancers are highly treatable and early detection saves lives. Be SkinSafe and book your full skin check today.
