It’s so important to always put our health first, but it’s easy to get stuck in the trap of waiting until you notice a problem before getting it checked out. When it comes to skin cancer, a regular skin check is one of the best preventive measures you can take. Skin cancer, including melanoma, can develop quickly and silently, making early detection essential in providing the best chance for effective treatment. Regular skin checks offer a proactive way to stay ahead of potential issues, ensuring any abnormalities are detected and addressed early on. Prevention and early diagnosis can save lives.
Why Skin Checks are Important
Did you know? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia, with over two-thirds of Australians diagnosed in their lifetime. There are three main types of skin cancer and each one varies in terms of aggressiveness and treatment outcomes:
- Melanoma accounts for only about 1-2% of cases, but it is the most dangerous. It often develops in existing moles or as a new dark spot on the skin. The five-year survival rate for melanoma is over 90% when detected early, but it drops significantly if the cancer has spread.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, but it’s also the least aggressive. BCCs usually appear as small, shiny bumps or patches on the skin. Although BCC grows slowly, it can still cause plenty of damage if left untreated.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer and often appears as scaly, red patches or open sores. With early detection, most cases of SCC can be treated successfully.
Early Detection Saves Lives
If you’re ever on the fence and wondering whether it’s worth getting a new spot checked out, just remember, early detection saves lives. When skin cancer is caught in its early stages, it can often be treated with minimal intervention, such as a simple excision, which leaves little to no scarring.
Later-stage skin cancer often requires more invasive treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Studies show that the survival rate for melanoma, for example, is above 90% when caught early, but this drops dramatically as the cancer progresses.
Self-Examination vs. Professional Skin Checks
It’s good to be aware of your skin and to do regular checks for any changes. By standing in front of a full-length mirror, you can spot new moles or changes to existing spots. This self-examination is an important first step in skin cancer prevention, but it’s not enough on its own. It works alongside a professional skin check, allowing you to become familiar with your skin. However, skin cancer can develop in areas that are hard to see on your own, such as your scalp, back, or behind the ears. Along with this, subtle changes in moles or lesions may go unnoticed by untrained eyes.
A professional skin check, performed by an experienced doctor, involves a thorough examination using specialised equipment like dermatoscopes, which provide a magnified view of your skin. This technology allows the doctor to detect abnormalities that might not be visible during a self-check. With regular professional exams, any suspicious areas are closely monitored, and early intervention is possible.
Factors that Influence How Often You Should Get a Skin Check
Knowing how often you need to get a skin cancer check is half the battle. A yearly check is a general recommendation for most adults, however, some people may need more frequent visits due to different risk factors.
Personal and Family History of Skin Cancer
If you have had skin cancer in the past, it is important to have regular skin checks every 3 to 6 months. Skin cancer survivors are at a higher risk of recurrence, and early detection of any new lesions is essential for successful treatment.
Similarly, a family history of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, increases your risk. Your doctor may recommend you visit more regularly than once a year.
Skin Type and Features
Your skin type can play a role in your risk of skin cancer. People with fair skin, freckles, and light hair or light eyes are more susceptible to sun damage, putting them at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Those with multiple moles, especially if they are large or atypical, also need to be particularly vigilant.
Geographic Location and UV Exposure
If you live in areas with high levels of UV radiation, like Australia, your risk of skin cancer is much higher. While sun protection and making sure you cover up when outdoors is your best bet, it’s just as important to follow up with a whole-body skin check. Those who work outdoors in the harsh Australian sun, such as those in construction, landscaping, or farming, are exposed to the sun for extended periods and should be extra cautious, perhaps going for checks more often than once a year.
Age
Age is another significant factor, as the risk of skin cancer increases as we grow older. In fact, most skin cancers appear after the age of 50, but the damage leading to these cancers can occur much earlier. As a result, older adults should consider more frequent skin checks.
Immunocompromised Individuals
People with a weakened immune system, such as those who have undergone organ transplants, are receiving treatment for HIV, or are taking immunosuppressive medications, are at a much higher risk of developing skin cancer. Their immune systems are less able to repair the damage caused by UV radiation, leading to a greater chance of cancer. A professional skin cancer check every 3 to 6 months is strongly recommended to catch any changes early.
General Guidelines for Skin Checks
Annual Skin Check
For most adults, a yearly skin check at a skin cancer clinic is needed. A dermatologist can carry out a full skin check to spot any signs of skin cancer, giving you peace of mind or taking action straight away so any suspicious moles can be successfully treated.
High-Risk Individuals
If you fall into a high-risk category, such as having a personal or family history of skin cancer, lots of atypical moles, or fair skin, it is recommended to have skin checks every 3 to 6 months. Regular check-ups at a skin cancer clinic ensure early detection and successful treatment.
Monthly Self-Examinations
While professional skin checks are essential, monthly self-examinations are a great way to spot warning signs in between appointments. Look for new spots or moles, changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing spots, or any skin lesions that don’t heal.
Dermatologist vs. General Practitioner (GP)
While a General Practitioner (GP) may perform a basic skin check, it’s important to see a dermatologist for a thorough skin examination. Dermatologists specialise in skin health and have the tools and expertise to detect skin cancer at its earliest stages.
What to Expect During a Skin Check
How to Prepare for a Skin Check
For your skin check, wear loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to remove for a full-body exam. If you wear nail polish, take it off beforehand, as dermatologists often check the skin under the nails for abnormalities.
Bring with you:
- A list of any moles or spots that have changed recently.
- Any family or personal medical history related to skin issues.
What Happens During a Skin Check
During a full-body exam, you will be asked to undress to your underwear so the dermatologist can check your skin from head to toe.
A dermatoscope may be used to examine moles and lesions in greater detail. If any spots or moles appear suspicious, the dermatologist may take photographs to track changes over time or recommend a biopsy to test for skin cancer.
Many people avoid getting their skin checked as they don’t feel comfortable. However, it’s important to note that skin checks are usually extremely quick and non-invasive. If a biopsy is needed, it’s a simple procedure performed under local anaesthetic, with minimal discomfort.
What Happens if an Abnormality is Found?
If a dermatologist finds a suspicious mole or lesion during your skin check, they may recommend a biopsy. There are several types of biopsies:
- Shave biopsy: A thin layer of the skin is removed.
- Punch biopsy: A small, circular section of skin is removed.
- Excisional biopsy: The entire lesion is removed for examination.
The biopsy procedure is generally quick and performed under local anaesthetic. Once completed, the sample is sent to a lab for analysis. If the results indicate skin cancer, the dermatologist will discuss treatment options, which could include excision (removing the lesion), Mohs surgery, or other treatments depending on the type and stage of the cancer.
Signs to Watch for Between Skin Checks
Even if you’re getting regular skin checks, it’s important to keep an eye out at home. Early detection is key, and knowing what to look for can help you spot any issues.
The ABCDE Rule for Melanoma
The ABCDE rule is a simple way to remember the warning signs of melanoma:
- A – Asymmetry: One-half of the mole or lesion doesn’t match the other.
- B – Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
- C – Colour: Varied shades of tan, brown, or black, and sometimes white, red, or blue.
- D – Diameter: Melanomas are often larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller.
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or elevation should be monitored closely.
Other Symptoms to Monitor
- Itching, tenderness, or pain in a mole or spot.
- Open sores that do not heal after several weeks.
- New moles that appear after the age of 30.
How to Perform a Self-Examination
Performing a self-examination once a month is a good way to keep an eye on any changes. Here’s how:
- Examine your entire body in a well-lit room using a full-length mirror.
- Use a hand-held mirror to check hard-to-see areas like your back, scalp and behind your ears.
- Pay special attention to moles, spots and freckles.
- Track any changes by creating a mole map or keeping a journal.
- Take photos of your moles or spots to compare them during your next monthly self-examination.
When to See a Dermatologist Immediately
Certain warning signs need immediate attention:
- The sudden appearance of a new mole that looks suspicious.
- A mole that bleeds, crusts over, or changes in appearance.
- Any non-healing sores or lesions on your skin.
How to Reduce Your Skin Cancer Risk
One of the best ways to prevent skin cancer is with daily sun protection:
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days or when spending time indoors near windows.
- Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, when spending time outside.
- Stay inside during the peak UV hours between 10am and 4pm.
Don't Miss That Next Skin Check!
Skin checks are an important part of your overall health. If it’s been more than a year since your last skin check, or you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, now is the time to schedule your appointment. Regular skin checks could make all the difference in detecting and treating skin cancer early.
At On Point Skin Cancer Clinic, we specialise in the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. Our experienced doctors are here to provide professional, affordable and accessible care. Reach out today and take the next step in safeguarding your health.