Skin cancer in Australians is commonly diagnosed using various methods, with a significant focus on sun protection and early detection. Given Australia's high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, the incidence of skin cancer in the country is relatively high. There are several ways skin cancer is diagnosed in Australians, including:
Self-Examination: Regular self-checks of the skin are encouraged to identify any new or changing moles, freckles, or spots. The ABCDE rule is often used to help identify potential signs of skin cancer:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border: Irregular, jagged, or poorly defined borders.
- Color: A mix of colors or an unusual color (e.g., black, blue, red, or white).
- Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolution: Changes in size, shape, color, or elevation over time.
Regular Skin Checks: Australians are encouraged to visit a healthcare professional or a dermatologist regularly for full-body skin examinations. During these exams, the doctor will carefully inspect the skin for any suspicious spots or lesions.
Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a non-invasive technique that allows doctors to examine skin lesions with a special handheld device called a dermoscope. This tool provides a magnified view of the skin's surface, enabling better visualization of potentially concerning features.
Biopsy: If a healthcare professional identifies a suspicious lesion during a skin examination or dermoscopy, they may perform a biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample of the suspicious tissue is taken and sent to a laboratory for analysis. This helps confirm the presence of skin cancer and determine its type and severity.
Mole Mapping: Mole mapping involves capturing detailed images of the skin's surface, focusing on moles and other marks. These images can then be compared over time to identify any changes that might indicate the presence of skin cancer.
Public Health Initiatives: The Australian government actively promotes public health initiatives to raise awareness of skin cancer and sun protection. These initiatives include educational campaigns about the dangers of UV radiation, the importance of wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment of skin cancer. Australians are encouraged to take proactive measures to protect themselves from the sun, perform regular self-checks, and seek medical attention if they notice any changes or abnormalities on their skin.