Skin Cancer Checks
Why have a skin cancer check?
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia
- More than 15,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma each year
- Skin cancer accounts for over 80% of all new cases of cancer diagnosed in Australia each year
- Approximately 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer in their lifetime
- Skin cancer is the most preventable type of cancer
Source: Cancer Council NSW
What does a skin check involve?
Our skin cancer checks are performed by our experienced and qualified GPs; the consult is booked for 30 mins and will incur an out-of-pocket fee. Photography will be taken during your consultation for baseline assessments, and your doctor will assess your individual risk of developing skin cancer as well as provide education on self-examination.
Biopsies and procedures
If you and your consulting doctor are concerned about any lesions noted after the consultation, you will be booked in for a skin biopsy. The biopsy is performed in our treatment room on site, with your consulting doctor and nursing support. Local anaesthetic is used, and most biopsies take no longer than 30 minutes, depending on size and number. The biopsy is then sent for pathology testing, and the results will be discussed with you by your consulting doctor. Any fees regarding the procedure will be discussed with you prior to scheduling an appointment.
Signs to look out for
Signs to look out for include:
- a spot that looks and feels different from other spots on your skin
- a spot that has changed size, shape, colour or texture
- a sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks
- a sore that is itchy or bleeds
Source: Cancer Council NSW
How to protect yourself from skin cancer (The 5 S’s)
- Slip on clothing that covers your shoulders, arms and legs
- Slop on SPF30 or higher broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours
- Slap on a sun smart hat (broad-brimmed, bucket or legionnaire style) that protects your face, ears and neck
- Seek shade whenever you can
- Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian Standard AS1067 and fit your face
Source: Cancer Council NSW