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The importance of a regular skin cancer check 

While the best way to protect yourself from skin cancer is by using sun protection, adding regular skin cancer checks to your to-do list just might save your life.

Booking in with your family practice for regular checks will ensure early detection of skin cancer. This will improve the chances of successful treatment.

You should become familiar with your skin and tell your family doctor if you develop a new spot or notice a mole or freckle changes its shape, size, or colour. Learning what to look for on your own skin gives you the power to detect cancer early when it’s easiest to cure before it can become dangerous, disfiguring, or deadly.

As most skin cancers grow silently without symptoms, regular skin cancer checks are vital for all people living in Australia.

How often do I need to get a skin cancer check in Australia?

Regular skin cancer checks are especially important for people who are at higher risk of skin cancer. People with reduced immunity, who have had skin cancer before, and those with a strong family history of skin cancer should speak to their family doctor about regular checks.

It’s recommended you book in with your family practice for a full skin examination every six months.

The thought of having skin cancer can be a stressful and emotional experience but if detected earlier and with the advancements in medicine, more and more Australians can be cured of cancer and go on to live long and happy lives.

Unfortunately, Australia has one of the highest cases of skin cancer in the world. Approximately two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70 with this number increasing each year.

What’s involved in a skin cancer check

At Drayton Street Family Practice, we offer a comprehensive skin cancer check for all ages.

Using MoleMate, a specially designed skin cancer tool for general practitioners, we can identify any suspicious or benign lesions.

A non-invasive, rapid, and painless skin cancer detection device, it’s the ideal way to detect cancerous moles and sunspots so they can be treated early, potentially saving your life.

Your initial one-hour appointment will consist of a full skin check with your doctor. This will include a photographic recording of all suspicious skin lesions and moles. After a thorough investigation of each lesion, you will attend a follow-up consultation to discuss findings and treatment options. If your doctor detects skin cancer, they may remove it or perform a biopsy, removing a small sample of tissue for detailed examination at a laboratory. Alternatively, they may refer you to a specialist.

Is it time to book in for a skin cancer check with your practitioner?

Come in and see our experienced team of practitioners at Drayton Street Family Practice. We’re conveniently located at 83 Drayton Street, Nanango. Phone 07 4171 0711 to book an appointment today. And view our entire range of additional services online.

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