How Do I Know If I Have Skin Cancer?
Due to the high UV radiation rays, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in Australia, affecting thousands of people each year.
Despite its prevalence, early detection can make all the difference in successful treatment and recovery. But how can you tell if you might have skin cancer? Today, we’ll help you understand how to check for skin cancer, allowing you to catch potential issues early and seek professional advice when necessary.
What Is Skin Cancer? Why should you care?
Skin cancer is mainly caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, resulting in abnormal cell growth in the skin, leading to uncontrolled cell division and cancerous lesions.
Early detection and prevention are key to a good treatment outcome; Australia stands out as one of the places with the highest UV radiation worldwide. In 2023, it was estimated by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare that 1 in 17 people had a risk of being diagnosed with Melanoma of the skin by the age of 85 (1).
There are three main types of skin cancer:
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it was expected to be the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2023 (2). Melanomas often appear as irregularly shaped moles or dark spots that grow or change over time. If left untreated, Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, making it the most dangerous one.
BCC is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a shiny or pearly bump on sun-exposed areas. While Basal Cell Carcinoma rarely spreads, it can cause localised damage if not treated promptly.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma often manifests as scaly red patches or sores that don’t heal. It is more aggressive than BCC but still highly treatable if caught early. SCC is usually found on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun for prolonged periods.
Read more about Skin Cancer.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally, often triggered by DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While excessive sun exposure is the leading cause, other factors contribute to an increased risk.
The causes of skin cancer include:
UV Radiation: The Primary Cause
The main cause of skin cancer is UV radiation. Over 95% of skin cancers are caused by UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds (3). Prolonged or repeated exposure can alter how skin cells grow and function, leading to mutations that may develop into cancer.
Genetics and Family History
A family history of skin cancer can increase the risk of developing it. If a close relative—such as a parent, sibling, or child—has had melanoma, your chances of developing it nearly double (4). Genetic mutations can make some individuals more susceptible to UV damage, meaning that even with limited sun exposure, they may still face a higher risk.
Fair Skin and Skin Type
People with fair skin have less melanin, which provides natural protection against UV damage, making them more vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer. However, all skin tones are at risk. While darker skin has more melanin, it doesn’t offer complete immunity—and sun protection is a must for everyone.
Environmental Factors
Studies show that exposure to pollutants like cigarette smoke and industrial chemicals can intensify UV damage. Some pollutants act as photosensitisers, reacting with UV light to produce harmful molecules that damage skin cells. Over time, this increases the risk of DNA mutations and skin cancer. (5)
Age and Skin Cancer Risk
The risk of skin cancer increases with age due to lifelong sun exposure. In Australia, about two in three people will develop at least one non-melanoma skin cancer by 70. However, younger individuals aren’t immune—melanoma is among the most common cancers in Australians under the age of 40 (6).
Protecting your skin early and having regular skin checks can significantly lower long-term risks.
Common Skin Cancer Symptoms
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you notice:
IA New or Changing Mole
Changes in existing moles are a red flag and should be checked by a professional. Always keep an eye out for moles that appear suddenly or begin to change in size, shape, or colour.
Unusual Skin Growths
Skin cancer can appear as lumps, bumps, or patches that seem different from the rest of your skin. These growths may have irregular edges, varying colours, or a rough texture.
Non-Healing Sores
A sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks, or one that heals and then reopens, can be a sign of skin cancer. Persistent sores often occur in sun-exposed areas.
Moles With Colour or Size Change
Moles that become larger, darker, or develop uneven colours (like shades of black, brown, or even red) may indicate Melanoma. Watch for moles that evolve.
Bleeding, Itching, or Pain
Skin lesions that bleed without reason itch persistently, or cause discomfort could signal skin cancer. These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
Learn more about top skin cancer symptoms.
How to Check for Skin Cancer
There are different ways to stay on top and identify potential issues. We recommend:
Mole Mapping
Mole mapping is a process that documents the size, shape, and location of moles on your body through digital technology, helping you monitor any changes over time.
Self-check at home
Conduct a thorough self-check at least once every 2 months. Use a mirror, bright light, and magnifying glass to inspect target areas that are likely exposed to the sun, like the face, neck, ears, hands, arms, torso, back, and legs, and document your findings.
Skin Cancer Checks
Professional skin checks by skin cancer specialists are recommended at least once a year, especially for individuals with a history of skin cancer or those exposed significantly to the sun.
Early Stage Skin Cancer: What to Look For and Signs of Skin Cancer in Moles
Skin cancer detection is generally considered one of the more visible and detectable forms of cancer; however, it can be challenging in certain situations. Knowing the signs of skin cancer is key:
- Small, shiny, or waxy bumps (common in BCC).
- Flat, scaly, or crusty patches (common in SCC).
- Moles with irregular edges, uneven colour, or growth (common in melanoma).
When examining moles, use the ABCDE rule:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- B – Border: The edges are irregular, blurred, or jagged.
- C – Colour: The mole has multiple colours or uneven shading.
- D – Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E – Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, or colour over time.
If there’s a suspicious skin growth, your doctor will perform a skin biopsy to determine if the mole is cancerous. Once the results come back, your specialist will decide the best treatment option for you.
Conclusion
Early detection is the best defence against skin cancer. By being proactive and cautious with the symptoms and signs, performing regular skin checks, and consulting professionals when necessary, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you have concerns about how to know if you have skin cancer, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider or visit a trusted skin cancer clinic for expert care.