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What is Skin Cancer?

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world due to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is the primary cause of skin cancer. Melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia.  UV damage also causes sunburn, tanning, premature ageing and eye damage.

What is skin cancer?

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

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Skin cancer signs and symptoms

The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding surgery or, in the case of a serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death. It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your level of risk and for advice on early detection.

Become familiar with the look of your skin, particularly spots and moles, so you can pick up any changes that might suggest skin cancer.
Look for:

  1. any crusty, non-healing sores
  2. small lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour
  3. new spots, freckles or any moles changing in colour, thickness or shape over weeks to months.

Causes of Skin Cancer

Anyone can be at risk of developing skin cancer, though the risk increases as you get older. Most skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight. Some factors that increase your risk of skin cancer include:

  • sunburn
  • tanning
  • Solarium

Diagnosis of skin cancer

You must check your skin regularly and check with your doctor if you notice any changes.

In most cases, your GP will examine you, paying attention to any spots that may look suspicious. Your GP may perform a biopsy (remove a small tissue sample for examination under a microscope). In some cases, your GP may refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist, if necessary.

Treatment for skin cancer

Skin cancers are almost always removed. In more advanced skin cancers, some of the surrounding tissue may also be removed to ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed. The most common treatment for skin cancer is surgery to remove the cancer (usually under a local anaesthetic). Common skin cancers can be treated with ointments or radiation therapy (radiotherapy). Skin cancer can also be removed with cryotherapy (using liquid nitrogen to rapidly freeze the cancer off), curettage (scraping) or cautery (burning).

For the best protection, use all five SunSmart steps:

1. Slip on covering clothing

Choose clothing covering as much skin as possible, such as collared shirts with long sleeves. Some clothing may carry an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), which guarantees how much UV protection a fabric provides.

2. Slop on SPF 30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen

Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before you go outside. The average-sized adult will need a teaspoon of sunscreen for their head and neck, each limb and the front and back of the body. That’s about seven teaspoons (35mL) for a full-body application. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.

Remember, sunscreen is not a suit of armour and should be used with other sun protection measures.

3. Slap on a hat

Choose a broad-brimmed, legionnaire or bucket-style hat which shades your face, nose, neck and ears, which are common sites for skin cancers. Caps and visors do not provide enough protection.

4. Seek shade

Use trees or built-shade structures, or bring your own (such as a sunshade tent)! Shade reduces UV radiation but can still reach you via reflection, so make sure you use shade in combination with other sun protection measures.

5. Slide on some sunglasses

Sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat worn together can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98%. Sunglasses should be worn outside during daylight hours. Choose close-fitting wraparound sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard AS/NSZ 1067.

 

To All Our Patients

Dr  Nadim Taoum is on Leave from  July 1st  until July 16th.

Dr Ghazaleh and Dr Reza are also on leave and will return on Monday, July 15th.

During this period, Dr David Fineberg and Dr David Sacks cover the clinic during working hours ONLY!

Unfortunately, we could not find a locum GP to cover the after-hours during these two weeks. Therefore our trading hours have slightly changed.

We will fully operate as usual, including the after-hours and weekends, from Tuesday, July 16th.

In case of an emergency, please visit the closest Emergency department.

Holiday Trading Hours

We hope everyone has a joyful holiday season! Please note our updated trading hours during the festive period:

Clinic Closure Dates:

  • 25th December 2024 (Christmas Day)
  • 26th December 2024 (Boxing Day)
  • 1st January 2025 (New Year’s Day)
  • 2nd January 2025


Adjusted Operating Hours:

  • 24th December 2024 (Christmas Eve): 08:30–15:00
  • 27th December 2024: 09:00–15:00
  • 6th January 2025 to 10th January 2025: 09:00–15:00
  • 13th January 2025 to 17th January 2025: 09:00–17:00


Weekend Hours (Unchanged):

  • Saturdays and Sundays: 09:00–13:00


We appreciate your understanding during this period and encourage you to plan your appointments accordingly. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season!

If you have any queries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our team.