According to the Melanoma Institute Australia, Australia has the highest rates of melanoma in the world. Melanoma is also the third most common cancer in Australia.

The main cause is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The good news is that if melanoma is found early and removed surgically, about 90% of people are cured.

Melanoma often has no warning symptoms. The first sign is usually a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new spot on the skin.

The Cancer Council states that these changes are usually:

• Changes in colour of a mole such as different shades or becoming blotchy
• The mole may increase in size
• The mole may be asymmetrical or irregular in shape
• It may develop a raised area
• The mole may become itchy or bleed

For more information about melanoma, click here

If you are concerned with any skin spots or moles, please make an appointment with your GP by clicking here or phone 8370 9777 to speak to a receptionist for an appointment.