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. Regular checks are 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. If you prefer to speak with our team, you can call us on 07 3521 4333.
Medical Disclaimer
(1) No advice: This website contains general information about medical conditions and treatments. The information is not advice, and should not be treated as such.
(2) Limitation of warranties: The medical information on this website is provided without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Narangba Station Medical Centre makes no representations or warranties in relation to the medical information on this website. Narangba Station Medical Centre does not warrant that: (a) the medical information on this website will be constantly available, or available at all; or (b) the medical information on this website is complete, true, accurate, up-to-date, or non-misleading.
(3) Professional assistance: You must not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website.
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