Check yourself!
Was that there last week?
Cancer Council recommends all adults should check their skin and moles every 3 months. Those at risk should have a trained doctor examine them at least once a year. Melanomas can develop in-between visits to your skin cancer doctor; therefore, you should know how to check your own skin and moles.
HOW DO YOU DO YOUR OWN SKIN CHECKS?
- Find a private area with good lighting, and preferably with a large full-length mirror.
- Use a small handheld mirror to check the difficult to see areas.
- Get nude (yes – everything off please). Start from the top of your head, scan from one side to the other, paying special attention to your eyebrows, around the eyes, the nose and your ears. Move down, scanning each body part by body part. Use the mirrors to see around difficult areas.
- Note any existing moles, and their rough sizes and positions. You may wish to use a digital camera to record these areas, using the “macro” function if available, or keeping the camera a good distance from the skin to keep the photo in focus. It also helps to put a ruler on the skin to record the sizes of the moles.
- Use a hairdryer to help spread your hair to check the scalp. (if you have a trusted loved one, ask them to spot check the areas you cannot see/access)
- Remember to check the back of your neck and legs. Also remember to check your fingers, toes and the nails.
At least ONCE per year it is recommended to get your skin professionally checked
Dr Danika Fietz has a Masters of Medicine in Primary Care Diagnosis and Management of Skin Cancer. Dr Danika works solely in the skin cancer arena. She has an interest and attention needed, for skin cancer assessments and treatment.
Dr Greg Shrimpton has a special interest in Skin Cancer Diagnosis. He also works as a family GP and can incorporate skin cancer diagnosis and management into your individual health care!
CLICK HERE to learn more about them and make an appointment.
