Skin Checks

Looking for a skin check doctor?

Queensland has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Luckily, if found early, most dangerous moles and spots can be removed which significantly reduces your risk of developing skin cancer.

If you’ve noticed a change in a mole or spot, don’t risk your health. Get your skin checked by your SmartClinics GP – especially if you are over 40 and/or have sundamaged skin, or multiple moles and freckles.

While most GPs can perform skin checks, there are many SmartClinics Doctors who have further qualifications in this field and can also remove any dangerous spots or moles saving you a trip to the Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon.

CLICK HERE for a list of SmartClinics Doctors who are highly experienced in performing skin checks, then use the drop down field to select your location. Some clinics also offer low cost or bulk billed skin checks – click here for details.

 

How to check your own skin…

While SmartClinics Doctors encourage everyone to have an annual skin check, it’s also important to check your own skin once a month so you’ll notice quickly if any changes occur. Here’s how to perform a skin check on your own body, and what to look out for.

As Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, the ABCDE of melanoma detection is a useful guide when checking your skin.

Asymmetry

If you “draw a line” through a mole and the two halves do not match (meaning it is asymmetrical) this is a warning sign for melanoma.

Border

The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven as opposed to a smooth border.

Colour

A mole that has a variety of colours is a warning sign. This includes different shades of brown, tan, black, red, white and blue.

Diameter

Melanomas usually have a large diameter (as a rough guide 6mm) however if detected early they can be smaller.

Evolving

If a mole starts to evolve or change in any way, like shape, colour, itch or bleed, this could be a warning sign and you should see your Doctor.

8 WAYS TO AVOID SKIN CANCER

  1. Examine your skin every month
  2. See your GP for a skin exam every year
  3. Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm
  4. Cover up with clothing including a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses

  1. Never use tanning beds
  2. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every 2 hours
  3. Keep newborn babies out of the sun
  4. Do not use sunscreen on babies under 6 months of age.

WHAT’S YOUR RISK LEVEL?

Everyone is at risk of skin cancer, however you’re at greater risk if answering yes to any of these questions below:

  • Do you have fair skin, fair or red hair and blue eyes?
  • Do you have a large number of moles?
  • Do you work outdoors?
  • Do you spend your weekends or holidays in the sun?

  • Have you ever used solariums, sunlamps and sun beds?
  • Is there a previous history of skin cancer is your family?
  • As a child, did you spend a lot of time in the sun?

Book your annual skin check at your local SmartClinics Centre now.

 

Did you know that many SmartClinics’ GPs have a special interest in Skin Cancer?

Book your annual skin check at your local SmartClinics Centre today.

Like to know more?

For specific information about skin cancer, please call Queensland Cancer Council on 13 11 20.