Skin cancer accounts for a majority of newly diagnosed cancers in Australia. The incidence rate is two to three times higher than in Canada, the US, and the UK. Early detection is critical as an increasing number of people are diagnosed each year.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
- Melanoma: Melanoma is the most serious and can become life-threatening if left untreated. It can be treated effectively when detected in its earliest stages.
- Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type and typically develops on sun-exposed areas including the neck, shoulders, and back.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This is another common form of skin cancer that develops in the outer layers of the skin and is usually treatable.