Skin cancer

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. At least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.

Over 1,000 Australians are treated for skin cancer every day and over 1,700 Australians die from skin cancer each year.  In Victoria alone, 343 people die from skin cancer (265 from melanoma and 78 from non melanoma skin cancer) each year - that is more than Victoria's annual road toll.

The major cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and other artificial sources, such as solariums.

The good news is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable form of cancer in Australia. Skin cancer can also be cured if detected and treated early.

About skin cancer

Skin cancer is a disease of the body's skin cells usually as a result of skin cell damage.

Types of skin cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most serious.

Risk factors for skin cancer

Sun exposure is the cause of most skin cancers in Australia. But other factors can increase or reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Checking for skin cancer

Find skin cancer early by regularly checking your skin.

Diagnosis and treatment

How is skin cancer diagnosed? Who will you see and what are the treatment options?

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