In WA, over 1,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year, and left untreated can, skin cancers can become life-threatening. The earlier skin cancer is detected, of which melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, the earlier it can be treated, thus providing the best chance of survival. Skin Cancer is a leading type of cancer in Australia, therefore, it is important to be vigilant in protecting yourself against harmful UV rays, conducting regular skin checks, and seeing your doctor for a skin check when changes or abnormalities to your moles, spots and skin are noticed.
Our doctors are fully qualified to perform skin checks, biopsies, removal of lesions and follow-up treatment in the management of skin cancer.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin Cancer falls into three categories:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- This is the most common and least dangerous of the skin cancers.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- This is the second most common form of skin cancer and is non-melanoma
- Melanoma
- Melanoma of the skin is the least common skin cancer, but is very serious. Left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body
If diagnosed and treated early, skin cancer mortality is significantly reduced.
Skin Cancer Clinic
Located a short distance from Perth, our Skin Cancer Clinic offers the following services:
- Skin checks
- Biopsies
- Lesion removal
- Follow-up treatment of skin cancers
How to check your own skin?
Use a full length mirror and a hand held mirror in a brightly lit room to make checking your skin easier. If, however, you have difficulty viewing some areas of your body, where possible, have someone assist you. If you don’t have anyone to help, then please see your GP for a thorough skin check, as early detection and treatment of skin cancer is your best chance to treat this disease.
To perform a self-examination of your skin, start from your upper body, carefully examining your face, scalp and neck, before moving to your torso and back, and then down to your lower extremities. Check between toes and fingers too. As you examine your skin, refer to the ABCDEs to identify possible signs of skin cancer. The ABCDEs that you are looking out for are:
• Asymmetry: Half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border: The mole border is irregular or jagged.
• Colour: The mole is inconsistent in colour.
• Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimetres in diameter
• Evolving: The mole is changing its size, shape, or colour
We recommending taking photos and notes to help monitor and document any evolving changes to the moles, which can then be used as a reference point when discussing a skin cancer check with your doctor.
If you do notice any of the ABCDEs, then please consult with your doctor for a skin check. Early diagnosis offers the best treatment for skin cancer.
Book a Skin Check at our Skin Cancer Clinic
Booking a skin check at our skin cancer clinic is one of the best things you can do as a proactive measure to help monitor and protect your health against skin cancer. With high incidences of skin cancer in Western Australia, and the harsh Australian sun, don’t leave your skin unchecked. Book a skin check appointment with our experienced and friendly doctors today.