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SKIN CHECKS

KNOW THE RISKS

Remember To Slip Slop Slap Seek and Slide

SKIN CANCER CAN BE PREVENTED

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Anyone is at risk at developing skin cancer, with the risk increasing as you get older. Skin Cancer is the most common type of cancer, but the good news is that nearly all skin cancers can be treated if they are found early. Knowing what to look for is very important, make sure to have a regular skin check booked in, your doctor has a special microscope to better identify problem areas.

how can i get skin cancer?

  • A lighter natural skin colour.
  • Family history of skin cancer.
  • A personal history of skin cancer.
  • Extensive exposure to the sun.
  • A history of indoor tanning.
  • Skin that burns or freckles in the sun
  • A presence of moles and certain type of moles.

How to prevent skin cancer?

There are 5 simple ways to protect yourself from the sun: 

  • SLIP on sun-protective clothing – which covers as much skin as possible.
  • SLOP on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. 
  • SLAP on a hat – one that protects your face, head, neck and ears.
  • SEEK shade as much as possible.
  • SLIDE on some sunglasses – ones that Australian standards.
Slip Slop Slap Seek Slide

How can I tell if I have a skin cancer?

There are many different types of skin cancer, each of which can look different on the skin. 

If you have noticed something unusual on your skin that might suggest skin cancer, such as; crusty non-healing sores, small lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour, new spots, freckles or any moles changing colour, thickness or shape over a period of weeks to months, it is very important to see your GP as soon as possible. 

Don’t try to identify a skin cancer on your own, your GP is experienced at identifying problem areas. Your GP may need to take a small punch biopsy to send for testing. Further steps will be advised once you have a diagnosis. 

How is Skin Cancer Treated?

Skin cancers can almost always be removed. In more advanced skin cancers, some of the surrounding tissue may also be surgically removed to make sure that all of the cancerous cells have been taken out.

Surgery is the most common treatment for removing skin cancer (usually under a local anaesthetic). Common skin cancers can be treated with ointments or radiation therapy (radiotherapy). Skin cancer can also be removed with cryotherapy (using liquid nitrogen to rapidly freeze the cancer off), curettage (scraping) or cautery (burning).

how can Westridge Medical Take care of my skin?

Westridge Medical Toowoomba covers all of your skin cancer needs from initial examination through to diagnosis, treatments, follow ups and future prevention. We do encourage all adults to have regular and thorough skin checks, as early detection provides a better chance of avoiding surgery or in the case of serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death.

Westridge Medical Sun Checks

Be Sun Smart. Remember to Slip on sun protective clothing, Slop on your sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek Shade and Slide on some glasses!

Please contact Westridge Medical on 07 4636 6884 to book an appointment for a Skin Check.