Skin Cancer Checks
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Early detection is critical — when found early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully. Family Doctor clinics across Australia provide comprehensive skin cancer checks performed by experienced general practitioners.
What Happens During a Skin Check?
A skin cancer check at a Family Doctor clinic typically involves the following steps:
- Medical history review — Your GP will ask about your skin cancer risk factors, previous skin cancers, family history, and sun exposure habits.
- Full-body skin examination — Your doctor will systematically examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any suspicious moles, spots, or lesions.
- Dermoscopy — Using a dermatoscope (a specialised magnifying instrument with polarised light), your GP can examine suspicious spots in greater detail to assess their structure and pattern.
- Next steps — If a suspicious lesion is found, your GP may perform a biopsy, arrange excision, refer you for mole mapping, or refer you to a dermatologist or specialist for further assessment.
Who Should Have Regular Skin Checks?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, you are at higher risk if you have:
- Fair skin that burns easily and does not tan
- A history of sunburn, particularly during childhood
- A large number of moles (more than 50)
- A family history of melanoma or skin cancer
- An occupation that involves significant outdoor sun exposure
- Age over 40 years
- A weakened immune system
If you have one or more of these risk factors, it is recommended that you have a skin check at least once a year. Talk to your GP about how often you should be checked based on your individual risk profile.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
The most common type of skin cancer. BCCs usually appear as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion, or a sore that heals and returns. BCCs grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body, but they can cause significant local tissue damage if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
The second most common type of skin cancer. SCCs often appear as a firm red nodule, a flat lesion with a scaly or crusted surface, or a sore that does not heal. SCCs can grow quickly and may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body if not treated early.
Melanoma
The most dangerous form of skin cancer. Melanoma can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. Warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colour, a diameter larger than 6mm, and any change in size, shape, or colour over time. Melanoma can spread rapidly to other organs and is life-threatening if not detected and treated early.
Book a Skin Check
Do not wait for a spot to become a problem. Book a skin cancer check at your nearest Family Doctor clinic today. Our GPs can assess your skin, identify any areas of concern, and arrange further investigation or treatment as needed.