Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer primarily develops in skin cells that have been damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Using sun protection can significantly lower your risk.
There are three main types of skin cancer, classified based on the type of skin cell where the cancer originates:
- Melanoma: This is the most severe type of skin cancer. It begins in melanocyte cells, which produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Melanoma can spread to other organs if not detected early.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): A common form of non-melanoma skin cancer, BCC originates in the basal cells of the skin. These cancers are usually slow-growing and rarely spread to other parts of the body.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Another type of non-melanoma skin cancer, SCC develops in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. SCC is more likely to spread than BCC but is still generally less aggressive than melanoma .
Skin cancers often show no initial symptoms but may appear as new growths, non-healing sores, or changes in existing moles.
Early detection through skin cancer screening is crucial, as it significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Screening is especially important for high-risk individuals with numerous or irregular moles or a family history of skin cancer. It also helps identify atypical and less visible cancers, including those in hard-to-see areas.
Cancer Australia states that melanoma is one of the 10 most common cancers in both men and women in Australia. Australia and New Zealand have the highest rates of melanoma in the world. According to Cancer Council Australia, it was estimated that more than 18,200 people were diagnosed with melanoma in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 65 years old.
How We Conduct a Skin Check
- Medical History Review: The doctor asks about your medical history, family history of skin cancer, and any symptoms or changes in your skin you’ve noticed.
- Visual Examination: The doctor examines your skin from head to toe, including hard-to-see areas like your scalp, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
- Use of Dermatoscope: For a closer look, the doctor uses a dermatoscope, a handheld device that magnifies the skin and helps distinguish between benign and malignant lesions.
- Total Body Photography and Mole Mapping: The doctor also uses total body photography and mole mapping to take comprehensive images of your skin. This helps document the size, shape, and location of moles and other skin lesions for future reference and comparison.
- Sequential Digital Dermoscope Imaging: This is used to track changes in moles and other lesions over time. This technique involves capturing detailed images at regular intervals to detect subtle changes.
- Biopsy if Needed: If any suspicious spots are found, the doctor performs a biopsy, removing a small sample of skin to be examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.
- Discussion: The doctor discusses the findings with you and provides advice on sun protection and any necessary follow-up steps.
The entire skin check takes approximately 20-30 minutes, providing a thorough and comprehensive examination of your skin. To ensure you feel completely at ease during the process, we encourage you to bring a family member or a friend if you wish. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities.
When Should You Get a Skin Check
Ordinary moles are typically small, round, and uniform in colour with smooth edges, remaining unchanged over time. On the other hand, melanomas often display irregular shapes with uneven edges, a mix of colour, and tend to be larger, often exceeding 6mm in width.
Warning signs for potential melanomas include changes in size, shape, and colour, as well as swelling, pain, bleeding, itchiness, or crusting in moles.
See your doctor if any of the following apply to you:
- You have noticed a mole that has undergone changes in size, shape, or colour.
- You have a mole that is causing pain or itching.
- You have a mole that appears inflamed, bleeding, or crusty.
- You have discovered a new or unusual mark on your skin that has persisted for several weeks.
- You have a dark area beneath a nail that is not the result of an injury.
Identifying melanoma at its earliest stages can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Common Myths Skin Cancer
Myth : Dark-skinned people don’t get skin cancer.
No one is exempt from skin cancer. Regardless of skin colour, everyone should safeguard their skin and eyes from overexposure to the sun to prevent the risk of developing skin cancer and experiencing UV damage.
Myth : Tanning beds are harmless than the sun
Tanning beds and sun lamps emit higher levels of UV radiation than the sun, elevating the risk of skin cancer, wrinkles, sun spots, and freckles. There is growing evidence linking their use to an increased risk of developing melanoma. Skin specialists and dermatologists strongly advise against using tanning beds and sun lamps.
Myth : No need to wear sunscreen in the winter or on a cloudy day
It’s a common misconception that you can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day, but that’s simply not true. Even under cloud cover, the sun can still harm your skin and eyes, causing long-term damage. You should protect your skin from UV radiation even when it is not warm or sunny. Harmful UV rays are present year-round and can reach your skin and cause damage even through clouds.