Skin Checks

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. About two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.

What is skin cancer?

There are three main types of skin cancer:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma,

  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma and

  • Melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer and are sometimes call non-melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma usually begins as a new small spot, mole or freckle that changes colour, shape or thickness over months.

Skin cancer checks

A skin cancer check assesses your skin cancer risk and indicates any current skin problems of concern.

The skin cancer check includes taking your medical history, including previous sun UV exposure, as well as undertaking a detailed examination of your skin. If any moles or lesions have developed or changed in size or nature recently, our doctors will assess and recommend the necessary treatment.

We recommend you see your GP for a skin cancer check at least annually. As well as scheduling your annual assessment, you should see your GP should you notice any of the following signs:

  • Changes in a mole size, shape or colour

  • The edges of a mole have begun to change

  • The mole starts and continues to grow

  • The mole is not a solid brown colour, but multicoloured instead

If you notice any of the above, it is advised to book an appointment immediately with your GP for an examination. Your doctor will provide you with a thorough skin check, and scan for symptoms of larger issues.

How to check your own skin…

While your GP will encourage you to have an annual skin check, it’s also important to check your own skin once a month so you’ll notice quickly if any changes occur. Here’s how to perform a skin check on your own body, and what to look out for.

As Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, the ABCDE of melanoma detection is a useful guide when checking your skin.

Asymmetry

If you “draw a line” through a mole and the two halves do not match (meaning it is asymmetrical) this is a warning sign for melanoma.

Border

The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven as opposed to a smooth border.

Colour

A mole that has a variety of colours is a warning sign. This includes different shades of brown, tan, black, red, white and blue.

Diameter

Melanomas usually have a large diameter (as a rough guide 6mm) however if detected early they can be smaller.

Evolving

If a mole starts to evolve or change in any way, like shape, colour, itch or bleed, this could be a warning sign and you should see your Doctor.

8 WAYS TO AVOID SKIN CANCER

  1. Examine your skin every month

  2. See your GP for a skin exam every year

  3. Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm

  4. Cover up with clothing including a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses

  5. Never use tanning beds

  6. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours

  7. Keep newborn babies out of the sun

  8. Do not use sunscreen on babies under 6 months of age.

WHAT’S YOUR RISK LEVEL?

Everyone is at risk of skin cancer, however you’re at greater risk if answering yes to any of these questions below:

  • Do you have fair skin, fair or red hair and blue eyes?

  • Do you have a large number of moles?

  • Do you work outdoors?

  • Do you spend your weekends or holidays in the sun?

  • Have you ever used solariums, sunlamps and sun beds?

  • Is there a previous history of skin cancer is your family?

  • As a child, did you spend a lot of time in the sun?