Skin Cancer Check &
Early detection saves lives
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, most commonly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with more than 95% of cases related to UV exposure.
Warning signs include:
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A new or changing mole or spot
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A lesion that changes in size, shape or colour
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A sore that does not heal within a few weeks
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A spot that itches, bleeds or crusts
The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC often appears as a scaly red patch, crusted sore or non-healing ulcer on sun-exposed skin. Prompt assessment is important because it can grow more quickly than BCC.
Squamous cell carcinoma commonly affects the face, ears, scalp and hands. Treatment usually involves surgical removal. Early diagnosis reduces the risk of deeper tissue involvement or spread.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Watch for a mole or spot that changes in size, shape or colour, or begins to itch or bleed.
Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. Regular skin checks and prompt assessment of suspicious lesions greatly improve treatment outcomes.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
BCC is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a pearly pink lump, a sore that does not heal, or a slowly growing skin lesion. Early treatment is highly effective
Basal cell carcinoma usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It commonly develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears and neck. Treatment may include surgical excision, cryotherapy or topical medication, depending on the type and size of the lesion.
Check Your Skin Regularly
Regular skin checks are one of the best ways to detect skin cancer early. Most skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are highly treatable when found early.
Check your skin from head to toe every few months. Look for:
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A new mole or spot
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A mole or spot that changes in size, shape or colour
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A sore that does not heal
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A spot that itches, bleeds or crusts
Use a hand mirror to check hard-to-see areas such as your back, scalp and the back of your legs, or ask a family member or partner to help. If you notice any new or changing skin lesion, book a skin cancer check as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment provide the best chance of successful treatment.
How to Check Your Skin – The ABCDE Guide
Learn how to recognise the early warning signs of melanoma and other skin cancers.
The ABCDE Rule
How to Spot Warning Signs of Skin Cancer
