Understanding Skin Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection
Reviewed by the GP team at Griffin Medical Centre||5 min read
Key takeaways
- Around two in three Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70.
- Most skin cancers are caused by UV exposure, which is largely preventable.
- Use the ABCDE rule to check moles for asymmetry, border, colour, diameter and evolution.
- Early detection means most skin cancers can be removed with minor surgery.
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally, with approximately two in three Australians diagnosed by the age of 70. Early detection and prevention are crucial in reducing the impact of skin cancer. Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally, often due to overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources such as tanning beds.
Types of skin cancer
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
The most common and least dangerous form. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but can cause significant local damage if untreated.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
Can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. It often appears as a red, scaly patch or a sore that does not heal.
Melanoma
The most serious form. It can spread quickly to other organs and requires early intervention. Melanomas often look like new or changing moles.
Prevention strategies
Preventing skin cancer involves minimising UV exposure and protecting your skin:
- Seek shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm when UV rays are strongest
- Wear protective clothing: long-sleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed hats offer good protection
- Use sunscreen: apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming or sweating
- Avoid tanning beds, which emit harmful UV radiation that increases skin cancer risk
The Cancer Council publishes daily UV levels and detailed sun protection advice for Queensland conditions.
Early detection
Talk to a GP about this
Bulk billing for all patients with a valid Medicare card.
Regular skin checks are vital:
- Self-examination: look for new or changing moles, spots or lesions, using the ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border, colour, diameter, evolving)
- Professional skin checks: schedule regular examinations with your doctor, especially if you have a history of sunburn, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer
Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. If caught early, most skin cancers are treatable and can be removed with minor surgery in the clinic.
A skin check fits naturally alongside the other preventive appointments described in our guides to men's health and women's health screenings.
When to see a doctor
If you notice any suspicious skin changes, make an appointment with your GP. Skin changes that bleed, itch, change shape or do not heal warrant professional evaluation. Skin checks and minor skin surgery are both available on site, as listed on our services page.
Griffin Medical Centre offers skin checks and minor procedures with doctors experienced in skin medicine. Griffin Medical Centre cares for families across Griffin, Murrumba Downs, North Lakes, Mango Hill and Kallangur.
