Skin Cancer Checks
Our Dermatologists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
Skin cancer can be quite a serious matter but early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. In Australia, skin cancer makes up 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers. This is particularly important in sunny parts of Australia, where the majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun. reference: http://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/types-of-cancer/skin-cancer.html#jump_8
You can decrease your risk of skin cancer by:
- Avoiding sunburns and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun at times when ultraviolet radiation levels are at their highest
- Staying in the shade where possible
- Wearing a broad brimmed hat
- Using polarised and UPF-rated sunglasses
- Regularly using sunscreen with a sunscreen with SPF at least 30+, broad spectrum and water-resistant properties applied 20mins before going in the sun and reapplied every 2 hours while in the sun
You should check yourself regularly for skin cancers and have someone assist you to check your skin in areas that you can’t see easily. Skin cancers can be identified by looking for non-healing sores, new spots on your skin or spots that like freckles or moles that change in colour, size, thickness or shape, or become itchy or painful. You should show your doctor any spots you are worried about.
Being experts in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, our doctors will gladly perform a thorough examination to identify skin cancers. As with all consultations at Darwin Dermatology, a valid referral from a GP or other specialist doctor is required if you wish to obtain a Medicare rebate for the consultation. Once a skin cancer is identified, our doctors will discuss the appropriate treatments. If surgery is needed, in most instances our doctors will perform the treatment on-site.
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