Skin Cancer Facts
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Each year approximately 80% of all new cancers diagnosed in Australia are skin cancers. It is estimated that two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70.
The good news is that early detection gives the best chance of successfully treating skin cancer. Australian survival rates from melanoma are higher than in other countries because we are now more aware of the signs of skin cancer and the benefits of regular skin assessments.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of Skin Cancer and the least likely to be fatal. Basal Cell Carcinomas can appear as a round or flattened lump or scaly area and are usually red, pale or pearly in colour. They can appear on any part of the body, but are often found on the face or neck and torso.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) appear as a thickened, red, scaly spot that may bleed easily, crust or ulcerate. This type of cancer generally appears on the head, neck, forearms and upper body (areas of the body that are most exposed to the sun).
Melanoma is the least common form of skin cancer but the most deadly. If melanoma is not diagnosed and treated quickly it can spread to other parts of the body forming secondary cancers. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape or colour of an existing mole, however sometimes they may appear as a new spot. Melanoma commonly has an irregular or smudgy outline and is more than one colour (brown, black, red, white and/or light grey). It is common for melanoma to grow over weeks to months, anywhere on the body, not just in places that get a lot of sun.
Over 430,000 Australians are treated for skin cancer each year. For this reason, it is extremely important to have a full body skin check and to monitor skin spots regularly.
Remember prevention is the best form of treatment. Book a skin check today.
