How common is skin cancer?
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. About two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia. Over one million treatments are given each year in Australia for non-melanoma skin cancers.
BCC can develop in young people, but it is more common in people over 40. SCC occurs mostly in people over 50.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. The three main types of skin cancer are:
- basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – about two out of three skin cancers
- squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – about one in three skin cancers
- melanoma – about one in 100 skin cancers.
Spring is an ideal time of the year to ensure you have had a skin check with your local general practitioner. If you have any concerns about any skin spots please speak with a medical practitioner or medical specialist and book in for a skin check.
Reference and for more information