Skin cancer rates in Australia are higher than anywhere else in the world. It is the most common form of cancer in Australia, affecting all age groups.
In SA, the lifetime risk of developing a skin cancer is 1/33 for men and 1/36 for women.
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the basal layer of the epidermis.
There are three main types of skin cancer in Australia: basal cell carcinoma; squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Melanomas start in the pigment cells (melanocytes) while basal and squamous cell carcinomas develop from the epidermal cells.
(Carcinoma is a term used for some types of cancer).
The skin is the largest organ of the body, it has several important functions.
1. It acts as a protective layer against injury and disease
2. It regulates our body temperature
3. It maintains our hydration
The skin consists of three layers:
• The epidermis, or the outer layer
• The dermis, or the inner layer
• The subcutaneous fat layer
The epidermis is made up of cells that produce keratin, a substance that covers the outside of the skin and resists heat, cold and the effects of many chemicals. The cells in the epidermis also produce melanin, the substance that gives our skin its colour. Melanin is able to absorb ultraviolet light and provide some protection from its damaging effects.
For South Australian appointments:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Melanoma
Melanoma is the rarest but most dangerous skin cancer. It accounts for about 5% of skin cancers.It is often a fast growing cancer which if left untreated, can spread quickly to other parts of the body to form secondary cancers or metastases. Melanomas can appear anywhere on the body, not only in areas that get a lot of sun. The first sign of a melanoma is usually a change in a freckle or mole, or the appearance of a new spot on normal skin. Changes are normally seen over a period of several weeks to months, not over several days. The changes are in size, shape or colour. Melanoma can occur from adolescence onwards and is most common between 30 and 50 years of age. In rare instances it may develop in children.
Signs and Symptoms
As skin cancers are visible, they can be checked as soon as they develop. Early symptoms may seem quite minor but any suspicious spot should be checked immediately.
The signs to look for are:
• A crusty, non-healing sore
• A small lump which is red, pale or pearly in
• A new spot, freckle or mole changing in
For South Australian appointments:
Everyone is at risk of skin cancer. People who burn easily and rarely tan are at the greatest risk. Unprotected skin, whether tanned or not, is likely to be damaged by the sun and may develop skin cancer later in life.
For South Australian appointments:
Sunlight Exposure
Skin Type
Occupation
Existing Skin Damage
- Minimise your time in the sun between 10.00am – 3.00pm
- Use shade as much as possible when outdoors
- Wear protective clothing – a wide brimmed hat and cover-up clothing
- Apply SPF 30+, broad spectrum sunscreen to skin which isn’t covered by clothing
For South Australian appointments:
1284 South Road
Tonsley
South Australia 5042
(enter via Tonsley Blvd)
Level 1, 98 Marine Pde
Southport
Queensland 4215
(enter via Railway St)