What is non-melanoma skin cancer?

Non-melanoma skin cancers, now called keratinocyte cancers, are the most common cancers in Australia, however most are not life-threatening.

There are two main types: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

BCC accounts for about 70% of non-melanoma skin cancers. It begins in the lower layer of the epidermis (top, outer layer of the skin). It can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly develops on parts of the body that receive high or intermittent sun exposure (head, face, neck, shoulders and back).

SCC accounts for about 30% of non-melanoma skin cancers. It begins in the upper layer of the epidermis and usually appears where the skin has had most exposure to the sun (head, neck, hands, forearms and lower legs). SCC generally grows quickly over weeks or months.

A third group of lesions called keratinocyte dysplasia’s includes solar keratosis, Bowenoid keratosis and squamous cell carcinoma in-situ (Bowen’s disease). These are not invasive cancers, however may require treatment as some may develop into non-melanoma skin cancers.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) signs and symptoms

BCC often has no symptoms and tends to grow slowly without spreading to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of BCC can include:

a pearly lump
a scaly, dry area that is shiny and pale or bright pink in colour

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) signs and symptoms

Symptoms of SCC may include:

thickened red, scaly spot
rapidly growing lump
looks like a sore that has not healed
may be tender to touch

Donate to Daffodil Day in August

Cancer Councils annual Daffodil Day this year is Thursday, 22nd August. This is Cancer Councils most iconic and much-loved fundraising campaign but you can get involved and help support this special day any time throughout the month of August. Almost 1 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, so it takes all of us to give hope for better treatments and better outcomes. In 2023, Australians gave a bunch for Daffodil Day, raising $2.5 million towards lifesaving cancer research. By donating to Daffodil Day this year you’re helping to create change for people affected by cancer.

Fundraise for Daffodil Day www.daffodilday.com.au/fundraising

1. Register to fundraise

2. Plan your event

3. Have fun and raise funds

Supporting Bowel Cancer Awareness

For the month of June, the Ballarat Surgicentre was proud to participate in the Bowel Cancer Awareness event by promoting healthy eating and swapping to fibre rich foods.

Bowel Cancer is Australia’s second deadliest cancer. The recommendations for Australian adult fibre levels are 25 grams per day for women and 30 grams per day for men.

By eating a combination of wholegrains, beans and legumes, nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables and avoiding highly processed foods, you can increase your fibre intake.

Staff and patients raised $86.05 by purchasing the $2 Red Apple ribbons on Red Apple Day – June 19.

Visit the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating for serving sizes, food groups and high fibre recipe meals at bowelcanceraustralia.org

Check for signs of skin cancer

Get to know your skin

The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding surgery or, in the case of a serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death.

It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your level of risk and for advice on early detection.

It’s important to get to know your skin and what is normal for you, so that you notice any changes. Skin cancers rarely hurt and are much more frequently seen than felt.

Develop a regular habit of checking your skin for new spots and changes to existing freckles or moles.

How to check your skin

The Great Surgicentre Bake Off

The Ballarat Surgicentre team have raised $537.00 in support of the Cancer Council Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea – 2024.

Staff competed in the Great Surgicentre Bake off. Competition was fierce and we certainly enjoyed devouring the competition entries.

Thank you to our patients who have also supported our fundraising efforts for this worthy cause.

Why is UV a risk in the snow?

UV levels can be more intense in the snow for two reasons:

The atmosphere is thinner at high altitudes and absorbs less UV radiation from the sun. UV radiation intensity increases by about 10–12% for every 1000 metres of altitude.
Snow is highly reflective. On a sunny day, clean fresh snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation. This means you can be exposed to almost a double dose of UV – directly from the sun and bouncing off snow-covered surfaces.
UV radiation from the sun – not heat – is the main cause of damage increasing your skin cancer risk.

Are you applying enough sunscreen?

Protect your skin!

It’s great being outdoors enjoying our beautiful country and climate. From the beach to the bush, being outdoors gives us a chance to be active, enjoy fresh air and spend time with others.

But being outdoors in Australia means we’re exposed to some of the harshest and most dangerous levels of ultraviolet radiation (UV) in the world.

Research shows 85% of Australians don’t apply enough sunscreen to prevent UV from damaging their skin.

For the parts of your body not covered by clothing, hats and sunglasses, apply sunscreen using these tips:

Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin at least 20 minutes before you go outside.
Most adults should use at least 7 teaspoons of sunscreen for one full body application to cover exposed skin properly. Use our SunScreen calculator below to help you.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Remember to bring sunscreen with you.

Source: Sunsmart website.

Protect your skin

There is no such thing as a safe tan – whether from the sun or a solarium. Tanning is a sign your skin cells are in trauma. The more you tan your skin, the greater your risk of skin cancer.

If you notice your skin starts to change colour – what people often call a ‘tan’ – that’s a clear sign that damage is being done. Whenever the UV Index hits 3 or above it’s important to cover up to protect your skin.

Even if your skin isn’t burning, a tan is a sign that your skin cells are in trauma and have been damaged by UV radiation. A tan occurs as your skin produces more pigment trying to protect itself from the damaging UV.

Alfred Hospital Victorian Melanoma Service Director Associate Professor, Victoria Mar, reiterated the dangers involved in tanning.

“Sun damage accumulates over time, so even if you’re seeking a tan but not burning, the risks will be heightened and for some people this will result in skin cancer. That’s why it’s so important for Australians to use adequate sun protection and avoid tanning,” Associate Prof Mar said.

Learn how to protect yourself and your family this summer at sunsmart.com.au

Source – SunSmart

WELCOME TO 2024 AND SUMMER!!!!!

DO YOU KNOW YOUR ABCDE’S

As we are all out enjoying the beautiful weather and sunshine, we need to make sure we are looking after our skin and keeping an eye on any changes.

The ABCDE rule for skin cancer is a handy acronym that can help you identify potential skin cancers.

The letters stand for “Asymmetrical, Border, Colour, Diameter, Evolving.” A new or changing spot or mole on your skin may be a sign of cancer.

When in doubt, it’s best to have a doctor check it out.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

The Ballarat Surgicentre team would like to thank all of its patients for such a wonderful year. Whether you were new to us in 2023, or have been with us for some time, we have thoroughly enjoyed meeting and caring for you.

We appreciate all of our lovely patients who have made this year so special and can’t wait for what 2024 has to bring.

We hope that you have a safe and happy holiday season with your family and friends, and look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Sincerely,

The Ballarat Surgicentre Team

What is non-melanoma skin cancer?