Living in Western Australia comes with many advantages—beautiful beaches, endless sunshine, and an outdoor lifestyle that many of us enjoy year-round. However, our climate also exposes us to some of the highest levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the world, putting Australians at a significantly increased risk of developing skin cancer.
In fact, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally. The good news is that when detected early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully. That’s why regular skin checks are one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health.
📌 Why Are Skin Checks So Important?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin type, although some people are at higher risk.
You may benefit from regular skin checks if you:
- Spend a lot of time outdoors for work or recreation
- Have fair skin, light eyes, or freckles
- Have had frequent sunburns, particularly during childhood
- Have a large number of moles
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Have a weakened immune system
- Notice a new or changing spot on your skin
Many skin cancers develop without causing pain or obvious symptoms. A lesion may appear harmless while slowly growing beneath the surface. Regular examinations allow suspicious changes to be identified before they become more serious.
⚠️ Understanding Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
This is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can cause significant damage to nearby skin and tissue if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma tends to grow faster than BCC and has a greater chance of spreading if not treated promptly. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Although it is less common than BCC and SCC, melanoma has the potential to spread to other organs if not detected early. Fortunately, when diagnosed in its early stages, melanoma is highly treatable.
🔍 Why Early Detection Saves Lives
The earlier a skin cancer is detected, the simpler the treatment is likely to be.
Early detection can:
- Increase the likelihood of successful treatment
- Reduce the need for more extensive surgery
- Minimise scarring
- Lower the risk of cancer spreading
- Provide reassurance when a spot is found to be harmless
Many patients are surprised to discover skin cancers in areas they rarely see themselves, such as the scalp, back, or behind the ears.
🧠 What Happens During a Skin Check?
A comprehensive skin examination is a straightforward, thorough, and confidential assessment.
During your appointment, I will perform a head-to-toe examination of your skin, carefully assessing all areas of your body for suspicious lesions, including those that are often overlooked.
Using specialised clinical imaging and skin-mapping software, I will:
- Photograph and document significant moles and skin lesions
- Record their location and appearance
- Compare future examinations with previous images
- Monitor for subtle changes over time
- Identify lesions that may require closer observation, biopsy, or treatment
This technology allows for much more accurate monitoring than relying on memory alone and helps detect changes that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Following your examination, we’ll discuss the findings together. If any areas require further assessment, I’ll explain the available options, which may include monitoring, biopsy, removal, or referral if necessary.
📌 Preparing for Your Appointment
To ensure the most thorough examination possible, it helps to:
- Remove nail polish if possible.
- Avoid wearing makeup on the day of your appointment.
- Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove.
- Bring a list of any spots that concern you.
- Let me know if you’ve noticed any recent changes in a mole or skin lesion.
📅 When Should You Have a Skin Check?
The appropriate frequency depends on your individual risk factors.
Many people benefit from annual skin examinations, while those at higher risk may require checks every 3– 12 months. During your appointment, we’ll discuss your personal risk profile and develop a surveillance plan that suits you.
Of course, you shouldn’t wait for your scheduled review if you notice a spot that is changing, bleeding, crusting, or simply doesn’t seem right.
👩⚕️ Protecting Your Skin
Regular skin checks are only one part of protecting yourself against skin cancer. Everyday sun protection remains essential.
Remember to:
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen.
- Wear protective clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Use sunglasses that meet Australian standards.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure during the middle of the day.
🌟Your Skin Deserves Regular Attention
Your skin is the largest organ in your body and often reflects changes long before symptoms develop. A comprehensive skin check provides peace of mind and can identify skin cancers at a stage when treatment is simplest and most effective.
Whether you’re concerned about a changing mole, have a history of skin cancer, or simply want to be proactive about your health, a professional skin examination is an investment in your future wellbeing.
Early detection truly can make all the difference.