Benefit Of A Brisbane Clinic Like Sun Doctors North Lakes

By Your Health Magazine

Does your family live in the beautiful sunny city of Brisbane? Then you know there’s hardly a better place for enjoying beaches, pools, parks and an active outdoor lifestyle all year-round. But that Australian sun exposure also increases risk for developing skin cancer. That’s why getting regular check ups from clinics like sundoctors skin clinic in Brisbane is so critical for detecting cancer early when it’s most treatable.

In this guide, you’ll learn all about skin cancer risks, types, warning signs, and how full body skin exams catch problems before they become serious. You’ll see what is the Benefit of a Brisbane clinic like sun doctors north lakes. Let’s get informed.

Brisbane’s Intense UV Rays

First, it’s important to understand why the sun in Australia exponentially increases skin cancer risk compared to other parts of the world:

The ozone layer surrounding Australia is thinner, exposing you to more intense UV radiation.
Brisbane’s close proximity to the equator means more direct, strong sunshine year-round.
Long summer days expose skin to dangerous UVA and UVB rays for many continuous hours.
Sunshine reflects off sand and water, increasing exposure.
Outdoor, active lifestyles keep residents in the sun regularly.
The warm climate means less protective clothing worn compared to cooler regions.

This combination creates a “perfect storm” for sun damage in Brisbane. Without proper protection and screening, skin cancer rates climb.

Common Skin Cancers to Watch For

What exactly are doctors looking for during skin checks? Here are the most common skin cancers in Australia:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – This cancer impacts the basal cells at the bottom of the epidermis. It often appears as a raised, pearl-like bump or pinkish patch of skin. BCC can develop into an open sore. While not as dangerous as others, it can damage surrounding tissue if untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – SCC affects the flat squamous cells in the upper layers of skin. It may resemble a reddish rough patch or an ulcer. SCC becomes life threatening if it invades deeper tissue, so early detection is key.

Melanoma – This serious skin cancer develops in the melanocytes that produce skin pigment. It often originates in an existing mole that changes shape, color, size, or begins bleeding or itching. Melanoma can quickly spread to other organs. Spotting in early makes treatment more successful.

Keep an eye out for any new or changing spots, moles and patches that don’t heal. Your dermatologist will determine if biopsy or removal is needed.

Worrisome Warning Signs to Look For

Watch for these specific changes that could signal a precancerous mole or lesion:

Asymmetry – One half doesn’t match the other half
Irregular Borders – Ragged, uneven edges
Color Changes – Darkening, whitening or multiple colors
Diameter Increase – Rapid growth beyond 6mm
Elevation Changes – Becomes raised up rather than flat
Unusual Bleeding, Itching or Scabbing

Use the ABCDE rule to remember what’s concerning. Report any unusual spots to your parents and dermatologist immediately. Don’t wait.

Full Body Skin Cancer Screenings: What to Expect

Now let’s discuss what happens during a professional skin check:

You’ll undress so the dermatologist can examine all your skin, head to toe.
They visually inspect and feel your entire body, even using a dermatoscope to magnify hard-to-see areas.
They assess moles and growths for cancer indicators like ABCDE.
The doctor notes any suspicious areas that require monitoring, biopsy or removal.
They answer any questions and concerns before sending biopsy samples to the lab if needed.
A follow-up appointment discusses biopsy results and next steps for treatment if necessary.

Full checks take time and require close examination. But they could save your life through early detection.

Why Annual Skin Checks Are Recommended

Due to Brisbane’s high sun exposure, doctors strongly advise:

Full skin cancer screening every year starting at age 10.
More frequent checks if you have risk factors like family history or numerous atypical moles.
Immediate checks if you notice potential skin cancer warning signs.

Yearly screenings allow dermatologists to monitor your skin for changes year-over-year. If they spot suspicious activity early, treatment success skyrockets.

Don’t Skip Your Skin Check.

Here are common but potentially dangerous reasons Brisbane residents may skip annual skin checks:

“I hate the look of sun damage on my skin already.” Remember, doctors don’t judge – they just want to keep you healthy.
“I had a check a couple years ago.” Skin can change a lot in 1-2 years, so schedule another.
“I can check my own skin.” Experts examine your entire body more thoroughly.
“I don’t want to deal with biopsies.” Catching things when they’re small prevents extensive treatment later.
“I don’t have time.” Make your skin health a priority by booking your next check today.

Stay vigilant and take advantage of qualified dermatology clinics in the Brisbane area. Your life could depend on it.

Conclusion

In addition to professional checks, minimize your skin cancer risk by: