Mackay Skin Cancer Checks
It's a well-known fact that people living in Queensland have higher rates of melanoma (40%) than the national average. Specialising in the early detection the doctors at One Stop Medical in Mackay, can help with all your skin concerns and recommend proactive measures to prevent skin cancer.
Skin cancer
While skin cancer can affect any one of any age, melanoma is commonly diagnosed among people between the ages of 15 to 39 and is the most common cause of death in 20 to 39-year-olds. It’s important, then, for all Queenslanders (as well as anyone living in Australia) to take heed of these statistics to prevent and reduce their chances of developing skin cancer in the future.
With UVR levels very high here in Australia – even on cloudy days – it’s important that Queenslanders protect their skin against sunburn. Did you know that the appropriate use of sunscreen could reduce the prevalence of every type of skin cancer by 10%-15%?
Skin Cancer Testing
Skin cancer is a condition where your body’s skin cells suffer from severe damage. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure is one of the most common causes of skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer, namely basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and malignant melanoma. SCC and BCC are also known as non-melanoma skin cancers.
Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, with Australia and New Zealand having the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Its initial symptoms include non-healing sores, small bumps that are red, pale or pearly and new freckles or moles that change shape or colour.
At One Stop Medical in Mackay, the Doctors offer services which specialise in the early detection and diagnosis, treatment and prevention of skin cancers. The GPs complete full skin cancer check ups and perform minor skin surgeries to remove cancerous skin lesions.
Skin Cancer Check-Ups
The doctors use a hand-held dermatoscope to obtain a magnified view of skin lesions. This aids in diagnosing skin cancers accurately.
If you have had a previous skin cancer condition, you may need to check in for a skin cancer assessment more frequently. Regular checks ensure that your skin stays healthy and cancer-free in the long run.
Using dermatoscopy (a diagnostic tool that helps with both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer), the doctors at One Stop Medical will perform a head-to-toe full skin examination. Not only will this help diagnose skin cancers accurately, but it will also provide a better view of your skin lesions so we know how to treat them.
If you’ve had a skin condition in the past, it’s even more important that you have skin cancer check-ups regularly to make sure you remain cancer-free.
While increasing the chances of early skin cancer diagnosis, skin cancer check-ups also give the doctor the opportunity to assess your individual risk and educate you on the self-examination of your skin.
Skin Cancer Management
If your GP detects a possible malignant skin lesion, we will immediately discuss with you your possible treatment options. This may involve a skin biopsy and a scheduled review of your current condition. We will then create a plan that works around your specific needs.
Some of the skin cancer treatments include the following:
- Cryotherapy
- Field cream treatment
- Full skin lesion excision
All the GPs at One Stop Medical are fully trained and offer services in skin cancer management as well as dermoscopy.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Scientific evidence has repeatedly shown that daily use of sunscreen can reduce the formation of sunspots, which can later develop into cancerous skin lesions.
The GPs at One Stop Medical highly recommend careful sun protection to prevent skin cancers from developing. This involves everything from applying sunscreen liberally, using hats and wearing protective clothing.
For all your skin cancer concerns,
book an appointment with your GP at One Stop Medical today.
The GPs service patients in Mackay and surrounding areas.
Printable Information
For more information about skin cancer including its types, symptoms and treatment, see these links below:
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What would be my skin cancer treatment options?
Treatment for skin cancer will depend on the location of the cells and the cancer stage, which will vary from person to person. Treatments include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.
2. What are potential side effects from the treatment?
Side effects depend on the location and the degree of treatment your body needs to remove the cancer. If surgery is required, then this could cause swelling. Chemotherapy, on the other hand, can lead to fatigue, nausea, mouth sores, and vomiting.
3. Which doctor will I see during my treatment for skin cancer?
- If you have early stages of basal cell carcinoma, you'll see a dermatologist who can treat diseases of the nails and skin.
- You’ll be seeing a medical oncologist for chemotherapy.
- For radiation therapy, you'll be under the care of a radiation oncologist.
- If the removal of legions has left behind scars, a reconstructive surgeon will use specialised techniques to preserve your appearance.
Contact us today
If you have any skin cancer concerns, don’t hesitate to contact our professional and friendly team at One Stop Medical today.
Serving patients in Mackay and the surrounding regions, we’re more than happy to help.
Please give us a call on 07 4951 1411, or enquire online!
