Skin Checks

Have you noticed a change in the look of your skin?

Did you know that non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world? It affects two out of every three Australians by the age of 70.

While skin cancer is almost entirely preventable, early detection is important.

If you have a mole that is worrying you or you’ve noticed any of the following changes, it’s important to have it checked by a doctor as soon as possible. It only takes 30 minutes and could save your life.

• Has your mole changed in colour or size, or has become itchy?
• Do you have an area of skin that never heals?
• Do you have a spot that has grown quickly or is new?

Even if you feel your skin is healthy, we recommend seeing a doctor for a skin check at least once a year, especially if you spend time in the sun for work or leisure.

At Bridgewater Medical Clinic, we have a doctor who has a special interest in the early detection and management of skin cancer.

Both Dr Sam Snelling and Dr Ranindu Abegunawardene have a special interest in the detection and management of all types of skin cancer. They have also completed advanced training in skin cancer medicine and dermatology.

While most doctors can perform skin checks, Dr Snelling and Dr Abegunawardene's further qualifications in this field mean that they can also remove any dangerous spots or moles, saving you a trip to the dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

We recommend annual skin checks for people aged 50 years and over or who have:

• Family history of melanoma
• Previous history of non-melanoma skin cancer
• Previous history of melanoma
• Significant sun damage
  
• A spot that has changed is new or has become symptomatic.

If this is you or someone you know, please book a skin check appointment with Dr Sam Snelling or Dr Ranindu Abegunawardene online or by calling us on (08) 8339 2077.