Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, affecting thousands of people every year. But the good news is, it's also one of the most preventable. At Emerald Medical Group, we're committed to your health and wellbeing, and that includes protecting your skin from the harsh Australian sun.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer arises from abnormal growths of skin cells. The most common types are:
Melanoma: The most serious type of skin cancer, but also the least common. Early detection is crucial.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, usually treatable with early intervention.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Less common than BCC, but can be more aggressive.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but some factors increase your risk:
Fair skin: People with less melanin (pigment) are more susceptible to sun damage.
Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the primary cause of skin cancer.
History of sunburn: Especially severe sunburns in childhood.
Family history: Having a close relative with skin cancer increases your risk.
Moles: Having many moles or atypical moles raises your risk of melanoma.
Skin Cancer Awareness: Spot the Signs
Early detection is critical for successful skin cancer treatment. Here's what to look for:
A new or changing mole: Look for asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colour, or a diameter larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
A sore that doesn't heal: Especially if it bleeds, crusts over, or keeps reappearing.
Red, scaly patches: Particularly on the face, ears, scalp, or lips.
Unusual changes in a wart or birthmark.
Protect Your Skin: Emerald Medical Group's Tips
Seek shade: Especially during the hottest part of the day (10am-4pm).
Sun protective clothing: Cover up with long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Sunscreen: Apply SPF 30 or higher broad-spectrum sunscreen generously and reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Sun avoidance for children: Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight and dress them in protective clothing.
Regular skin checks: Examine your skin regularly for any changes and see your doctor for any suspicious spots.
Skin Cancer Screening at Emerald Medical Group
At Emerald Medical Group, we recommend regular skin checks as part of your preventative healthcare.
Dr. Ewen McPhee and Dr Brendan Hill are experienced in skin cancer detection and can provide treatment options as required. We have our skin clinics on Tuesdays with Dr McPhee and Thursdays with Dr. Hill.
Don't wait until it's too late. Take charge of your skin health and schedule a skin cancer check-up with Emerald Medical Group today. Call us at 07 4986 7400 or book an appointment online via HotDocs.
Together, let's protect your skin and prevent skin cancer.
Emerald Medical Group - We care for your health.
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