Skin Cancer Care

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, for instance, by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

 There are three main types of skin cancer:

• melanoma – the most dangerous form of skin cancer
• basal cell carcinoma
• squamous cell carcinoma

 Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are also known as non-melanoma skin cancer.

The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding surgery or, in some cases the possibility of a serious melanoma or other skin cancers.

It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your level of risk and for advice on early detection.

Skin cancers usually do not cause discomfort and are best picked up by regularly looking at the skin rather than just by feel.

A regular skin self-examination aims to pick up any changes early, lookout for any of the following:

• a new spot or unusual freckle, mole or sunspot;
• a non-healing or crusty sore;
• a small lump that is red, pale or pearly;
• a spot that looks different from other spots around it;
• a persisting itch in a mole;
• a spot that has changed colour, size or shape over a few weeks or months.

 Consult your doctor if you have any of these signs. Skin cancers that are detected at an early stage are the most easily treated.

Your doctor may perform a biopsy or completely remove (remove a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope) or refer you to a specialist if required..

For more information please follow the below links and review the information videos

Department of Health NSW website - http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Pages/a2z.aspx

Health Direct Australia website - http://www.healthdirect.gov.au/#!/health-topics

Know Your Own Skin - http://www.knowyourownskin.com.au/

For more information or to book an appointment, please call (02) 4297 8672

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care.