Each year over 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer; yet most skin cancers are preventable and the majority of them can be successfully treated, if found early.
There are 3 types of skin cancer:
– Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): the most common, least dangerous form of skin cancer, red, pale or pearly in colour
– Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): a thickened, red scaly spot
– Melanoma: the most deadly form of skin cancer
A melanoma is often di fferent to a mole in one or more of the following ways (summed up as ABCDE):
A) Asymmetry of shape
B) Border irregularity
C) Colour variation
D) Diameter over 6 mm
E) Evolving (enlarging, changing)
Prevention of skin cancer
Prevention is the best option. If you notice any new growth or change in your skin and you do not know what it
is, in particular, any change in the size, shape or colour of an existing mole, or a new dark area of skin develops,
it is advisable to see your GP. Sun protection measures are integral when subject to the sun’s UV rays. Slip, Slop,
Slap, Seek and Slide is recommended. Slip on some clothing, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade, and
slide on sunglasses to prevent skin cancer.