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Why are Skin Checks Important in Australia?

Skin cancer does not discriminate. It affects all ages, and is a threat regardless of the weather.


Why are Skin Checks Important in Australia?

Why are Skin Checks Important in Australia?

All Australians are at risk, with two in three Australians being diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70 and more than 11,500 Australian men and women diagnosed with a melanoma each year.

What is skin cancer?

Most skin cancers are not fatal. Less than 3 in 100 are the serious melanoma. Most are squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), and basal cell cancers (BCCs), however in most cases, BCCs and SCCs can cause major cosmetic changes to a person’s face, ears, nose, or body if not treated early.

When is it important to check?

Melanoma is the most common cancer in Australians aged 15-39 and the third most common cancer in both men and women of all ages. Some skin cancers are not caused by sun exposure and so even if you feel as though you are safe in the sun, it is important to regularly check your skin. 

What should I look for?

All Australians should check their skin regularly and look for:

  • New moles or moles that have changed in size or appearance
  • Changes to the outline of a mole
  • A mole that is itchy, scaly, or rough
  • Spot or freckles that have changed colour

When to see a doctor

If you have a skin lesion that has been there for one month to 12 months and you are worried, GPs at Our Medical are on hand for a Skin Health Assessment.

No appointment is required and we are open late 7 days a week.

For more information, see details of your nearest location below:

NSW
Crows Nest - Find out more » 

Dee Why - Find out more » 

Gregory Hills - Find out more » 

Marsden Park - Find out more » 

Penrith - Find out more »

VIC

Caroline Springs - Find out more »

Cranbourne - Find out more »

Williams Landing - Find out more »

QLD

Annerley - Find out more »

Ashmore - Find out more »

Gold Coast - Find out more »

Loganholme - Find out more »

North Lakes - Find out more »

Book a skin check via the Our Medical app from the App Store or Google Play.