Skin Cancer in Australia: Prevention, Early Detection & Latest Treatments

Skin
Written By Rupi Singh

Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, largely due to high ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Skin cancer affects millions of Australians, and while prevention remains key, new treatment breakthroughs, including immunotherapy and topical medications, are improving outcomes for patients.

This guide covers everything you need to know about skin cancer in Australia, including prevention strategies, early detection, and the latest advancements in treatment.

Skin Cancer in Australia: Current Statistics

  • Over two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.

  • More than 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer each year.

  • Melanoma accounts for over 13,000 cases annually, making it one of the most common cancers in Australia.

  • Non-melanoma skin cancers (BCC & SCC) are also widespread, with over 400,000 cases diagnosed each year.

(Source: SunSmart Australia)

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

  • The most common and least dangerous form.

  • Appears as a shiny, raised bump or sore that won’t heal.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

  • Second most common type.

  • Appears as a scaly red patch, lump, or sore that bleeds easily.

  • Can spread if left untreated.

3. Melanoma (Most Dangerous Form)

  • Fast-growing and potentially deadly.

  • Appears as a new or changing mole with irregular shape or color.

Early detection of melanoma significantly improves survival rates.

New Developments in Skin Cancer Treatment (2024 Updates)

1. Immunotherapy Breakthroughs

  • Immunotherapy has transformed the treatment of advanced melanoma.

  • The Opdualag (nivolumab + relatlimab) immunotherapy combination was added to the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) in February 2024, making it more affordable for Australian patients.

  • This treatment boosts the immune system’s ability to attack cancer cells.

(Source: RACGP)

2. Neoadjuvant Therapies for Stage III Melanoma

  • Australian researchers have introduced pre-surgery (neoadjuvant) immunotherapy to improve survival rates for patients with high-risk melanoma.

  • This approach reduces the chances of recurrence and spread.

(Source: Melanoma Institute Australia)

3. New Topical Treatments for Skin Cancer Prevention

  • A new topical cream is being developed to prevent and treat skin cancers in high-risk patients, such as organ transplant recipients.

  • This non-invasive treatment is currently undergoing pre-clinical trials.

(Source: University of Queensland)

4. Innovative Clinical Trials for Rare Skin Cancers

  • New treatment combinations for Merkel Cell Carcinoma, a rare but aggressive skin cancer, are being tested in Australian clinical trials.

(Source: MASC Trials)

Skin Cancer Prevention: What You Need to Know

Prevention is the best way to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Follow these key SunSmart strategies:

✔ Slip on sun-protective clothing
✔ Slop on SPF50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
✔ Slap on a wide-brimmed hat
✔ Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
✔ Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes

⚠ Avoid Tanning Beds!
 Tanning beds are linked to increased skin cancer risks, and the "tan-line" trend on social media is causing concern among health professionals.

(Source: Courier Mail)

Early Detection: Signs of Skin Cancer

Regular skin checks help detect cancer before it spreads. Look for:

  • A new or changing mole (asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors, larger than 6mm).

  • Sores that don’t heal after 2-3 weeks.

  • Scaly or rough patches that persist.

  • Itching, bleeding, or crusting on any mole or spot.

Get professional skin checks annually, especially if you have a history of sun exposure.

(Source: Cancer Council Australia)

Skin Cancer Treatment in Australia

1. Surgical Removal

  • Most common method for early-stage skin cancers.

  • Includes wide excision or Mohs surgery for precise removal.

2. Radiotherapy

  • Used for advanced or inoperable skin cancers.

3. Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy

  • Best for advanced melanoma and metastatic skin cancers.

  • Includes drugs like Opdualag, Keytruda, and Yervoy.

4. Chemotherapy (Less Common Today)

  • Still used in some advanced cases.

(Source: Melanoma Institute Australia)

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Skin & Stay Informed

Skin cancer remains a major health issue in Australia, but advancements in immunotherapy, early detection, and prevention strategies are saving lives.

✔ Practice sun safety daily.
✔ Monitor your skin for changes.
✔ Seek professional skin checks annually.

If you need medical advice or documentation for skin-related conditions, Doctorsnote.com.au provides fast and reliable online medical certificates for work and health-related concerns.

Further reading : Melanoma in Australia: Prevention, Early Detection & Latest Treatments

DR. R. Singh

Rupi Singh
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