How Often Should I Have a Skin Check?

By Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

Some of my patients are very anxious about skin cancer and come to see us for a skin check every year. I often have the conversation that they are in a lower risk group and can do a self-check at home every few months and come back and see me in a few years but for various reasons they prefer to stay under annual checks – and that’s absolutely fine, but skin cancer is all about managing risk…

With skin cancer rates in Australia among the highest in the world, regular skin checks are a crucial part of maintaining your health. According to Australian Dermatologist, Dr Rodney Sinclair, writing in the Australian Family Physician, understanding when and how often to get your skin checked can significantly impact early detection and successful treatment of skin cancers.

Why Regular Skin Checks Are Important

Skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), can develop from cumulative sun exposure over time. Early detection through regular skin checks is essential because:

• Early Detection Saves Lives: When detected early, the majority of skin cancers can be treated successfully. Melanomas, in particular, can spread quickly but are highly treatable when caught early.
• Prevention: Regular skin checks help identify pre-cancerous lesions that can be treated before they develop into skin cancer.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are taking proactive steps to monitor your skin health can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety about potential skin damage and skin issues.

Recommended Frequency for Skin Checks

The UV exposure in Australia is much higher than elsewhere in the world. Skin cancers are ten times more likely to occur in Australia than in many countries in Europe. The frequency of skin checks depends on your individual risk factors. Here are some general guidelines:

1. For the older population:

• Annual Checks: It is generally recommended that older adults (over 65) with lighter skin tones have a professional skin check at least once a year. This helps to identify any new or changing lesions that may be of concern.

2. For those with higher risk factors:

If you have any of the following risk factors, you should have annual skin checks:

• • Red hair.
  • Type 1 skin (Never tans, always burns with red or blonde hair) and older than 45 years.
  • Type 2 skin and older than 65 years.
  • Family history of melanoma in a first degree relative in patients aged older than 15 years.
  • More than 100 moles (more than 10 atypical naevi) – People with a high number of moles or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) should be more vigilant.

• Past history of melanoma (Skin check every 3 months for the first few years after diagnosis and then can return to annual skin check).
• Past history of non-melanoma skin cancer or more than 20 solar keratosis.

The table below adapted from Dr Rodney Sinclair’s paper outlines the other medium and lower risk factors:

Self-Examinations: In addition to professional checks, performing regular self-examinations is great. Aim to examine your skin every three months for any new or changing spots, moles, or lesions. Use a mirror or ask for help to check hard-to-see areas like your back and scalp.

What to Expect During a Skin Check

A full, professional skin check at WA Skin Cancer Centre typically involves:

• Visual Examination: A skin cancer doctor will examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any suspicious lesions or changes in existing moles.
• Dermatoscope Use: A dermatoscope, a special magnifying tool, is used to get a closer look at any concerning spots.
• Biopsy if Necessary: If the skin cancer doctor finds a suspicious lesion, they may take a biopsy (a small sample of skin) for further analysis to determine if it is cancerous.

Tips for Effective Skin Checks

• Document Changes: Keep a record of any changes you notice in your skin, including photographs if possible. This can help track the development of any new spots or changes in existing ones.
• Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma: Be aware of the signs of melanoma, which include Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Darkness or Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving shape or size.
• Protect Your Skin: Preventative measures such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours can reduce your risk of skin cancer.

WA Skin Cancer Centre

Regular skin checks are a vital part of maintaining your health, especially in a country like Australia with high rates of skin cancer. By understanding your risk factors and staying vigilant with both professional and self-examinations, you can take proactive steps to protect your skin and overall health.

Take charge of your skin health today. Book a skin check with the WA Skin Cancer Centre and ensure that any potential issues are caught early, giving you the best chance for effective treatment and peace of mind.

Book your skin check with us today!

References

Sinclair, R. Skin checks. Australian Family Physician, 2012; 41(7), 464-469.

About the Author

Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP 

Dr Gos is a dedicated and dynamic medical leader and educator with a deep passion for skin cancer care. Based in Perth, he specialises in skin cancer management, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients. Alongside his clinical work, Dr Gos serves on an Expert Examiner Panel at Curtin Medical School, and is the Clinical Director of Radiant Doctors, an initiative established to provide sustainable primary care services and address the shortage of GPs in regional areas.