Skin Cancer

Skin cancer check

Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and the Gold Coast is one of Australia's highest-risk regions because of its high ultraviolet (UV) exposure and outdoor lifestyle. Recent Queensland research has shown that the Gold Coast has the highest number of new melanoma diagnoses in the state, highlighting the importance of regular skin examinations and early detection.

At Mermaid Beach Dermatology, our Specialist Dermatologists provide comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment using the latest diagnostic technology and evidence-based management.

Early detection saves lives. Most skin cancers can be successfully treated when diagnosed early.

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About Skin Cancer

  • Why are skin cancers so common on the Gold Coast?

    Australia receives some of the highest levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the world, and years of cumulative sun exposure gradually damage the DNA within skin cells.

    Living on the Gold Coast often means spending more time outdoors, whether at the beach, exercising or working outside. Even small amounts of sun exposure accumulated over many years increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

    Your risk is higher if you:

    • Have fair skin

    • Burn easily

    • Have blue or green eyes

    • Have blond or red hair

    • Have numerous moles

    • Have atypical (dysplastic) moles

    • Have a personal or family history of melanoma

    • Have previously had skin cancer

    • Have received significant sun exposure during childhood

    • Have a weakened immune system

  • Skin cancer screening

    A thorough skin examination remains the most effective way to detect skin cancer early.

    During your skin check, your dermatologist will:

    • Examine your skin from head to toe

    • Assess moles and pigmented lesions

    • Examine sun-damaged skin

    • Use dermoscopy to assess suspicious lesions

    • Photograph lesions where appropriate

    • Determine your individual skin cancer risk

    • Recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule

    The frequency of skin checks depends on your individual risk factors, including:

    • Previous melanoma

    • Previous basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

    • Previous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

    • Multiple atypical moles

    • Family history of melanoma

    • Degree of sun damage

    • Skin type

  • Sun damage

    Years of ultraviolet exposure cause chronic sun damage, also known as photoageing.

    Signs of sun damage include:

    • Rough skin

    • Dry skin

    • Brown spots

    • Uneven pigmentation

    • Wrinkles

    • Broken blood vessels

    • Actinic keratoses (solar keratoses)

    Treating sun damage not only improves the appearance of the skin but can also reduce the risk of developing future skin cancers.

  • Treatment of sun damage and early skin cancer

    Treatment is individualised according to the diagnosis, size, location and depth of the lesion.

    Our treatment options include:

    • Cryotherapy

    • Surgical excision

    • Curettage and cautery

    • Prescription creams including fluorouracil (Efudix®), imiquimod (Aldara®) and retinoid preparations

    • Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

    • Advice regarding sun protection and long-term surveillance

  • Preventing skin cancer

    The best way to reduce your risk is to protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation.

    We recommend:

    • Applying SPF 50+ sunscreen every day (with UVA and UVB protection)

    • Wearing protective clothing and a broad-brimmed hat

    • Seeking shade whenever possible

    • Avoiding peak UV hours

    • Performing regular skin self-examinations

    • Having regular skin checks if you are at increased risk

  • Why choose Mermaid Beach Dermatology?

    Our Specialist Dermatologists provide expert diagnosis and treatment of all forms of skin cancer and sun damage.

    We offer:

    • Comprehensive full-body skin examinations

    • Dermoscopic assessment of pigmented lesions

    • Individualised skin cancer surveillance

    • Diagnosis and treatment of melanoma, BCC and SCC

    • Management of actinic keratoses

    • Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

    • Prescription field therapy

    • Surgical and non-surgical treatment options

    • Ongoing monitoring for patients at high risk of skin cancer

    Our goal is to detect skin cancers as early as possible while providing evidence-based treatment with the best possible cosmetic and medical outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • This depends on your individual risk factors. Patients with a previous melanoma or multiple skin cancers may require examinations every 3–6 months, while others may only need annual reviews.

  • Skin cancers can appear as a new mole, a changing mole, a non-healing sore, a pearly bump, a crusted lesion or a rapidly growing lump. Any new or changing lesion should be assessed promptly.

  • No. Many sunspots are actinic keratoses, which are precancerous rather than cancerous. However, because they can develop into squamous cell carcinoma, treatment is often recommended.

  • Photodynamic therapy is an excellent treatment for selected superficial skin cancers and sun damage but is not suitable for every lesion. Your dermatologist will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the type and location of the skin cancer.

  • Arrange an appointment as soon as possible if you notice:

    • A changing mole

    • A new dark or irregular spot

    • A sore that does not heal

    • A rapidly growing lump

    • A bleeding or crusted lesion

    • A lesion that continues to enlarge or change over time

Contact Us

Call us on 07 5597 0016 or complete the form below