What Causes Skin Cancer?
According to the Cancer Council, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and a staggering two in every three Aussies will be diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime. But you may be wondering, what actually causes skin cancer?
There are several ways you can get skin cancer. Still, the primary cause is exposure to ultraviolet light (UV) from the sun. In fact, 95% of melanomas are caused by UV radiation. Tanning beds, known as solariums, can also contribute to skin cancer, but the percentage of cancers is lower. Nonetheless, the risk is still severe, and a nationwide ban was placed on solariums in 2016.
Now, back to UV exposure. Skin cancer can be caused by long-term UV exposure or a short period of intense sun exposure. With prolonged exposure, the UV from the sun can damage the DNA inside the skin cells. Usually, DNA provides instructions that regulate cell growth and death. When this DNA is altered, the instructions change, leading cells to grow and divide uncontrollably and, importantly, avoid natural cell death. Without this natural cell death, abnormal cells are overproduced.
Over time, these cancerous cells can invade nearby healthy tissue. In more advanced cases, they may spread to other body parts through the bloodstream or lymphatic system in a process known as metastasis.
Preventing Skin Cancer
The best way to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer is by protecting your skin from overexposure to the sun. How so? Applying a high-quality SPF50 or higher sunscreen on all areas of unprotected skin and wearing protective clothing that covers your skin from the UV radiation from the sun are the most effective ways.
Another vital factor in the fight against skin cancer is having regular skin cancer checks by an adequately trained doctor. Early detection of skin cancer is key. And remember, moles can still become cancerous even when taking proper precautions to minimise the risk of skin cancer.
Are Certain People At Higher Risk Than Others?
Due to lifestyle and genetic factors, some people are more likely to develop skin cancer than others. However, it’s still essential for everyone to have regular checkups, as anyone can develop skin cancer. And those who don’t take any preventative action are at the most significant risk.
Additionally, the following individuals have an increased risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer:
- Users of tanning beds (solariums) – despite bans in Australia, past use still increases risk.
- Individuals with fair skin – those who burn easily, have light hair or eye colour or freckles.
- Individuals with a history of sunburn – especially if the sunburns were severe or occurred during childhood.
- Individuals with a family or personal history of skin cancer – having a close relative with skin cancer raises your risk.
- Individuals with many moles or unusual (atypical) moles – these can sometimes develop into melanomas.
- Older adults – risk increases with age due to cumulative sun exposure.
“Checking moles and sun spots yourself is not a substitute for having ongoing skin examinations with a doctor specially trained in skin cancer detection.”
How Does A Doctor Check For Cancerous Spots And Moles?
During your skin cancer check, your doctor will likely use a dermatoscope, which allows the doctor to examine the mole’s shape, size and appearance. If the mole is suspected to be cancerous, a punch biopsy can be sent to pathology for testing.
Your doctor may also take photos of any specific moles or spots requiring ongoing monitoring. This allows your doctor to compare how the mole or skin post changes over time.
Checking Spots And Moles Yourself
An essential part of ongoing monitoring is checking your skin monthly so that you can notice any of the following signs:
- An increase in size
- Changes in shape
- Changes in colour, especially if the mole has multiple colours or shades
- Bleeding or itching
- New moles that appear unusual or different from your other moles
Remember, though, checking moles and sun spots yourself is not a substitute for having ongoing skin examinations with a doctor specially trained in skin cancer detection.
How Often Should I Get My Skin Checked?
While Australia has no guidelines for how often adults should get their skin checked, the Cancer Council offers a few sound recommendations. For most people, a full-body skin examination is only necessary every couple of years. Additionally, you should monitor yourself regularly and see a doctor if you notice anything of concern.
For those at higher risk of contracting skin cancer, you should discuss the frequency of skin cancer checks with your doctor. This may include a full skin examination, supported by photography and dermoscopy, possibly every six to 12 months.
And, if you notice a sunspot or mole that appears or changes in appearance, you should consider having the spot checked by a skin cancer specialist.
How Are Skin Cancer And Other Moles Removed?
Skin cancer, such as melanoma, needs to be removed using surgical excision. Our Plastic Surgeon, Dr Dona, can perform surgery in a hospital setting for any complex mole(s) or those in aesthetically sensitive areas.
Non-cancerous moles can also be removed in-clinic at Bella Plastic Surgery using laser technology. Laser Mole Removal Treatment does not involve cutting the skin. Therefore, there’s no need for sutures, dressings or any other coverings following treatment.
So remember, prevention is better than cure; early detection is key — and skin cancer can be deadly, so if you haven’t had a professional checkup for some time, book an appointment with your doctor today.