🌞 What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. Australia has one of the highest rates in the world. The most common types are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Most frequent, rarely spreads
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Grows faster, can occasionally metastasize
- Melanoma: Most dangerous; early detection is critical
Excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the leading risk factor, making daily sun protection and regular checks essential.
⚠️ Major Risk Factors
Skin damage from UV light is the primary cause of skin cancer. Other factors include:
- Continuous outdoor work or hobbies under strong sunlight
- Fair skin, light hair, or light-colored eyes
- Family history of skin cancer
- Severe childhood sunburns
- Weakened immune system (e.g., post-transplant, HIV)
🔍 Key Warning Signs
Regular self‑exams help catch changes early. Watch for:
- Changes in existing moles – size, color, or shape
- New unusual spots or moles
- Non‑healing sores or bleeding lesions
- Rough, scaly patches with blurred borders
🩺 How to Get Screened in Australia
There is no national screening program, but you can:
- Consult your GP; suspicious lesions are referred to a dermatologist
- Visit dedicated skin clinics such as MoleMap, SunDoctors, SpotCheck
- Attend free spot‑check events run by charities like Lions Cancer Institute
Most assessments are visual; biopsies are performed if cancer is suspected.
💰 Medicare and Cost Support
- Medicare rebate: Partially covers biopsies or excisions referred by a doctor
- Private health insurance: Some plans cover skin checks or mole removal
- Free events: Look for community screening days for no‑cost checks
🛡️ Prevention Tips
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, 20 min before sun exposure
- Wear sun‑protective clothing, wide‑brim hat, and sunglasses
- Avoid direct sun between 10 am and 4 pm
- Check your skin monthly using a mirror
- Schedule professional checks every 1–2 years
🏥 Treatment Options
Treatment depends on cancer type and stage:
- Surgical excision: Standard for most lesions
- Cryotherapy: Freezing early lesions with liquid nitrogen
- Topical chemotherapy creams: 5‑FU or imiquimod for superficial cancers
- Photodynamic therapy: Light‑activated drugs to destroy cancer cells
- Radiation therapy: For inoperable or recurrent cases
- Immunotherapy/targeted therapy: Used mainly for advanced melanoma
Regular follow‑up is necessary to monitor recurrence.
📚 Useful Resources
- Cancer Council – Sun Safety Tips
- MoleMap Australia – Free Spot Check
- Lions Cancer Institute – Free Screening Events
- SunDoctors Skin Cancer Clinics
✅ Prevention and early detection are the best defenses. Check your skin today and book a professional assessment.
🎉 This completes our Free Health Check Series in Australia!