Checking for skin cancer

Over 95% of skin cancers can be treated if found early. Most skin cancers are detected by people themselves or by a family member. Skin cancers may not be painful and are more commonly seen rather than felt.

To learn how to check your skin for the early signs of skin cancer choose from the headings below:

• What to look for when checking your skin
• The ABCD of melanoma detection
• How to check for skin cancer
• Skin cancer clinics

What to look for when checking your skin

• a spot that is different from other spots around it;
• an new or existing skin spot that has changed in size, shape or colour: and/or
• a non-healing sore.
  

The ABCD of melanoma detection

Using the ABCD of melanoma detection check spots on your skin for:

	Asymmetry - Look for spots that lack symmetry. That is, if a line was drawn through the middle, the two sides would not match up.
	Border - A spot with a spreading or irregular edge (notched).
	Colour - Blotchy spots with a number of colours such as black, blue, red, white and/or grey.
	Diameter - Look for spots that are getting bigger.

How to check for skin cancer

• Undress completely and stand in a good light source.
  
• Use a mirror so that you can check all areas of your skin including back and scalp.
  
• Skin cancers can occur in areas not exposed to sunlight, like your underarms and soles of the feet. Remember to check your entire body.
  
• If there are areas you can't see ask your GP for a skin check, don't ignore them.

Skin cancer clinics

Some people choose to have their skin checked at a skin cancer clinic. There are a number of skin clinics in WA, offering a variety of services and fee arrangements.

In deciding whether to go to a skin cancer clinic, it is important that you find out what services they offer, the expertise of the staff and how much the appointment will cost.

Note these clinics are often private businesses run by GPs rather than dermatologists (doctors who have completed additional training to specialise in diagnosing and treating skin cancers and other skin conditions).

The Cancer Council WA does not endorse any particular skin cancer clinic in Western Australia.