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Skin Cancer Checks at Dr Scott Horsburgh

Queensland holds the highest rate of skin cancer globally, making regular skin checks essential for early detection and effective treatment. At Dr Horsburgh’s clinic, we provide comprehensive skin examinations to identify and address any concerns promptly

Early Detection Saves Lives

Australia, and particularly Queensland, experiences some of the harshest UV conditions in the world. Fortunately, most cases can be managed successfully if detected early. Regular skin checks are not just a precaution, they are a proactive step in maintaining your long-term health.

When you attend Dr Horsburgh’s clinic in Brisbane, the focus is on a thorough assessment, accuracy in diagnosis, and a clear treatment pathway if anything requires attention.

These checks are more than just a glance at the surface, they involve detailed inspection using modern tools and a medical understanding of how different types of skin cancers present.

What to Expect During Your Skin Cancer Check in Brisbane

Our full-body skin checks involve a thorough examination of your skin, focusing on identifying any suspicious moles, freckles, or lesions. Using advanced dermoscopy techniques, we assess each area meticulously to ensure early detection of any abnormalities.

During your skin cancer check appointment, you’ll be asked about your personal and family history of skin cancer, as well as your sun exposure habits. These factors help to assess your risk level and guides how often checks might be needed in future. You will then undergo a structured examination of the skin across your entire body. This includes often-overlooked areas such as the scalp and ears, which are places where skin cancers can develop without being easily noticed.

If any concerning spots are found, we may perform a biopsy for further analysis. Should treatment be necessary, we offer both surgical and non-surgical options to address skin cancers effectively.

Biopsies are small procedures performed under local anaesthetic, where a small sample of tissue is removed for pathology testing. Results are usually returned within days, allowing treatment decisions to be made quickly.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve minor surgery to remove the lesion or, in some cases, non-surgical methods such as topical creams or cryotherapy (freezing). The approach taken is always tailored to the type of skin cancer and its stage of development.

Book Your Skin Check with Dr Horsburgh Today

Prioritise your skin health by scheduling a comprehensive skin check with Dr Scott Horsburgh in Brisbane. Our clinic is dedicated to providing thorough examinations and personalised care to keep your skin healthy.

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Self-Examination: Your Role in Skin Health

In addition to professional skin checks, regular self-examinations to check for skin cancer are crucial.

Carefully and regularly monitoring your own skin increases the chance of catching any concerning changes early. Many people first notice something unusual themselves before a doctor does.

A good approach is to check your skin every few months in front of a mirror, or ask a family member to help inspect areas that are hard to see. Taking photos to track changes over time can also be very useful.

Be vigilant for:

  • Non-healing sores or lesions that bleed easily
  • Spots that itch persistently
  • Moles that change in size, shape, or color
  • Any new or unusual skin growths
  • These warning signs should never be ignored. While not all unusual marks on the skin are skin cancer, it’s always best to have them assessed. Even subtle changes may be meaningful when viewed through a dermoscope by an experienced practitioner.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment promptly.

How Often Should You Have a Skin Cancer Check?

We recommend:

Annual full-body skin checks for individuals over 30

  • Biannual checks for those with fair skin or a history of skin cancer
  • Regular monitoring ensures early detection and better treatment outcomes.

The frequency of checks may vary depending on your risk profile. People who have spent years working outdoors, have a family history of melanoma, or who burn easily may need to be seen more often.

For younger patients under 30, checks may still be worthwhile, particularly if they have a large number of moles or a strong history of sun exposure. Ultimately, the schedule is personalised and can change over time if your risk factors change.

Why Skin Cancer Checks Matter in Queensland

While the sun is often a great bonus of living in Queensland, it does mean living with a higher UV ray exposure than many other places in the world.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate and cause damage. Sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing go a long way, but prevention measures alone are not always enough.

That is why regular checks are important. They don’t just detect skin cancer, they help establish a baseline for what’s normal on your skin, so that future changes can be picked up quickly. Many patients find peace of mind in knowing their skin has been reviewed thoroughly by a doctor trained in recognising early warning signs.

The Types of Skin Cancer We Look For

Skin cancers fall into different categories. The main types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Each presents differently and carries different risks.

Basal cell carcinomas are the most common and usually appear as shiny bumps or sores that don’t heal. They tend to grow slowly but need treatment to prevent local damage.

Squamous cell carcinomas often look like scaly or crusted patches and can spread if left untreated.

Melanomas, though less common, are the most serious form. They can spread quickly to other parts of the body and require prompt treatment.

By using a dermoscopy, subtle patterns beneath the skin’s surface can be seen, improving accuracy in distinguishing harmless spots from potentially dangerous spots.

Supporting Your Skin Health Between Appointments

Apart from having professional checks and conducting self-examinations, there are daily habits you can maintain that help reduce your risk of skin cancer.

We recommend:

  • Using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, reapplying it when outdoors
  • Avoiding being in direct sunlight during peak UV hours
  • Wearing wide-brimmed hats

FAQs

How long does a skin check appointment usually take?

Do I need to prepare in any way before my appointment?

Are skin checks covered by Medicare in Australia?

What happens if something suspicious is found but turns out not to be cancer?

Can children and younger adults benefit from skin checks?

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