Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, and many people do not notice early warning signs until a spot changes in appearance or becomes uncomfortable. Because sun exposure builds over time, skin changes can appear years after earlier sun damage occurred.
Knowing when to arrange a skin check can help you act sooner and feel more confident about your health. This guide explains common warning signs, who may be at higher risk, and when it may be sensible to have your skin assessed by a GP.
If you have noticed a new or changing skin spot, booking a GP appointment can help you have it assessed and understand what to do next and understand what to do next.
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters in Australia
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world due to strong UV exposure and outdoor lifestyles. Skin cancer awareness is about knowing your risk, noticing changes in your skin, and seeking medical advice when something looks or feels different.
Common Signs That Should Not Be Ignored
Many skin spots are harmless, but some changes are worth having checked by a GP. Signs to watch for include:
- A new mole or spot appearing in adulthood
- Changes in size, shape, or colour
- Uneven or irregular borders
- A sore that does not heal
- Bleeding, crusting, or itching
- A spot that looks different from others
- Rapid change in an existing lesion
These signs do not always mean a serious problem, but they should not be ignored.
If any of these changes sound familiar, Cameron Park Healthcare can arrange a GP skin assessment to review your concerns and guide the next steps.
The ABCDE Method for Checking Moles
The ABCDE method is a widely used guide to help you notice changes in moles that may need assessment. It gives you a simple framework for monitoring your own skin between GP visits:
- A for Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other in shape or size
- B for Border: Edges look uneven, blurred, notched, or poorly defined
- C for Colour: Multiple colours present, or uneven and patchy colour patterns
- D for Diameter: The mole has grown larger over time, particularly if the change is noticeable
- E for Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, texture, or sensation over time
This method does not confirm skin cancer and is not a substitute for clinical assessment. It is a practical tool to help you decide when seeking medical advice makes sense.
Who May Be at Higher Risk?
Some people have a higher chance of developing skin cancer and may benefit from more regular skin checks. Factors that may increase risk include:
- Fair skin that burns easily in the sun
- History of frequent or severe sunburn, particularly in earlier years
- Outdoor work or regular outdoor activity with prolonged sun exposure
- A large number of moles or moles that look unusual
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- Older age, particularly for adults over 50
- A weakened immune system due to illness or medication
Being at higher risk does not mean you will develop skin cancer. However, it may mean that staying more watchful and having regular reviews is a sensible approach to your health.
When to Book a Skin Check
It may be worth booking a skin check if you notice a new or changing spot, ongoing itching, bleeding, crusting, or a sore that does not heal. Some people also choose routine checks because of age, past sun exposure, personal history, or regular outdoor work. A GP can assess any concerns and advise whether follow-up is needed.
What Happens During a GP Skin Check?
A GP skin check is a straightforward appointment. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, any previous skin cancers, family history, and changes you have noticed. They will examine the area of concern and advise on next steps, which may include monitoring, follow-up, or referral if needed.
A skin check is a straightforward appointment. If you have been putting it off, our GP team at Cameron Park Healthcare can guide you through the process in a clear and supportive way. Call us on (02) 4950 1333 to book.
How to Check Your Skin at Home Between Visits
Regular self-checks between GP visits can help you notice changes earlier. Here are some practical steps to follow:
- Check your skin in good natural or bright artificial light
- Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror for hard-to-see areas
- Check your scalp, back, feet, between toes, and behind your ears
- Compare moles and spots over time so you notice if anything changes
- Take note of any new spots or changes to existing ones
- Ask a trusted person to help check areas like your back that are difficult to see yourself
Self-checks are a helpful habit, but they are not a replacement for clinical assessment. If you notice anything that concerns you, seeking a GP review is the appropriate next step.
Final Thoughts
Skin cancer awareness starts with noticing changes in your skin. Many spots are harmless, but new or changing lesions should be checked. If you are unsure about a spot, a GP review can provide clarity and advise whether any further steps are needed.
If you would like a professional review of a mole or skin change, Cameron Park Healthcare can help you arrange a skin check at a suitable time.Appointments are available for patients in Cameron Park, Newcastle, and the broader Hunter Region.
Shop 19, 309 George Booth Drive, Cameron Park NSW 2285
Phone: (02) 4950 1333
Book online: cameronparkhealthcare.com.au
