Skin Cancer Checks
Given the higher rates of melanoma (40%) among Queenslanders compared to the national average, and considering the consistently high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels in Australia (including on cloudy days), it’s crucial for all Australians to protect their skin against sunburn to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. At Narangba Station Medical Centre, our doctors specialise in early detection and diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin cancers. They conduct thorough skin cancer check-ups and perform minor skin surgeries to remove cancerous lesions.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when your body's skin cells undergo severe damage, often due to exposure to UV radiation. The three main types of skin cancer are: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and malignant melanoma. BCC and SCC are categorized as non-melanoma skin cancers.
Melanoma, the deadliest form, is associated with the highest skin cancer rates globally in Australia and New Zealand. Initial symptoms include non-healing sores, small red, pale, or pearly bumps, and new freckles or moles that change shape or colour. Melanoma is frequently diagnosed in individuals aged 15-39, becoming the leading cause of death in people aged 20-39.
Testing for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer check-ups not only increase the chances of early diagnosis but also allow doctors to assess individual risk and educate patients on self-examination. Using a hand-held dermatoscope for a magnified view, our doctors perform a head-to-toe full skin examination using dermatoscopy, aiding in accurate diagnosis of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer.
For those with a history of skin cancer, more frequent assessments may be recommended. Making regular skin checks a part of your annual health check schedule, is crucial for maintaining healthy, cancer-free skin. If you've had a previous skin condition, regular skin cancer check-ups are especially important to ensure ongoing prevention and early detection.
Managing Skin cancer
Management of a potential malignant skin lesion first involves discussing possible treatment options with you before creating a personalised plan based on your specific needs. We may feel the need to schedule a review appointment of your current state along with taking a skin biopsy.
Our skin cancer treatments are as follows:
- Cryotherapy (extreme cold temperatures to remove cancers)
- Field cream treatment
- Minor surgical removal of cancer
We recommend meticulous sun protection to prevent the development of skin cancers, such as: daily use of sunscreen, and wearing hats and protective clothing.
Call us or book your appointment online
Bookings can be made online using our easy to use booking platform with AutoMed Systems. If you prefer to speak with our team, you can call us on 07 3521 4333.
Contact & Bookings
To make an appointment, please call reception or use our online booking system via the button below. You can also visit our contact page to see further details about our location and directions.
Bookings are available from as early as 7AM on weekdays and Saturday. We are also open Sunday afternoon and late evening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8:30PM.Â
Can't find us? - We are situated across the road from Narangba Train Station next to the Narangba Village shopping complex. Look for signs for Narangba Health Centre and IGA.
Serving patients in Narangba, Burpengary, Dakabin, Deception Bay, Morayfield, North Lakes and North Brisbane surrounds