Why do you need it?
Australia and New Zealand have the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, 2 or 3 times the rates in the US, Canada, or the UK. Skin cancers the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Australia, they make up approximately 80% of all cancers diagnosed. Roughly 2 out of 3 Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before they turn 70.
Melanomas alone are the third most common type of cancer reported, behind prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women, with a lifetime diagnosis rate of 1 in 15 (although risk of diagnosis before 60 is 1 in 65). There are around 1400 deaths due to melanoma in Australia every year – more than 3 every day. Melanomas make up about 1% of skin cancers diagnosed, around 99% are basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) or squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), and there are some rarer types.
95% of skin cancers are caused by exposure to UV radiation, usually in sunlight. People can develop skin cancer at any age, but they are more common as you get older.
If caught early, most skin cancers are very treatable. Many skin cancers are identified by self-examination, being aware of any changes in your skin is important. While there isn’t enough evidence to recommend whole of population screening programs, people who are at higher risk may be recommended regular skin checks by their GPs or at a skin clinic. Risk factors that mean you may be at higher chance of skin cancer include:
- fair complexion, a tendency to burn rather than tan, freckles, light eye colour or light or red hair
- family or personal history of skin cancer
- presence of multiple moles or skin keratoses
- history of high levels of sun exposure or sunburns, either in childhood, or as adults (have ever been sunburnt)
- are over 40 years of age
- are male (are at higher risk than women)
- outdoor workers.
Offering onsite skin check programs provides an opportunity for organisations to demonstrating a willingness to support worker health. They also show that your organisation prioritises sun safety, supporting positive behavioural and cultural change to reduce exposure to the hazards of sun exposure.
Onsite skin checks provide a way to raise knowledge on sun awareness and protection, while offering a practical service at a convenient time and place by knowledgeable health professionals.
References:
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Cancer data in Australia [Internet]. Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2024 Available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-data-in-australia
- Understanding Skin Cancer, Cancer Council Australia, © 2024. Understanding Skin Cancer
- Understanding Melanoma, Cancer Council Australia, © 2024. Understanding Melanoma
How does it work?
This is a screening process, these skin checks are not intended to diagnose skin cancer, but to identify when further investigation is needed.
A person (or persons) from each site can liaise with our coordinator to champion for the organisation and site, and to answer worker questions and promote the service.
A private room will be set up with a table and two chairs, and on the day will require a bed, a small table/trolley, and a power source, which we can supply. We can also provide gowns.
A suitably qualified health professional will conduct the medical skin checks. Each person can choose to either have their whole body screened or just part. On average screening will take around 15-20 minutes per person.
If a skin change of concern is identified, the individual will be given a referral letter to take to their GP for further investigation. Approximately 30 people can be screened in a day – over 9 hours with a 10-minute break and 30-minute lunch.
Screening can be provided for any shift and on weekends, however costs may vary.
FAQs
Workers are encouraged to complete a the QIMR Melanoma Risk Predictor prior to the appointment. https://publications.qimrberghofer.edu.au/Custom/QSkinMelanomaRisk
They will be able to choose whether to have their entire body screened or partially.
They will be offered a disposable gown to wear and can choose whether they wish to wear their underwear for the examination.
The health professional will observe any exposed skin, from scalp to toes, and inspect any freckles, moles or other skin changes. They will make notes on what they see, and if there is anything that might require further investigation will provide a referral to their preferred general practitioner.
All findings are kept confidential, between the health professional, the person being screened and their nominated GP.
What other investigations are required will be recommended by the worker’s GP and could involve biopsy or excision and testing of the change. They may refer on to a dermatologist.
