Spot check detects deadly cancers

Six people were diagnosed with a deadly melanoma lesion after receiving a free skin check at a recent public awareness event.

The diagnosis was made at the Melanoma March, which was held last month at the Leschenault Inlet, to raise awareness of the deadly skin cancer.

Almost 70 people had skin checks at the event, with 23 receiving a first time check up and 21 people being referred for further evaluation for possible melanomas.

On average one in every 14 men and one in every 24 women are diagnosed with a melanoma before the age of 85, but at the free check held at the event one in 11 people were diagnosed with a deadly lesion.

Melanoma WA chief executive officer Clinton Heal said it was shocking to find so many life threatening lesions at the one time.

“It took us by surprise, but we know cancer is out there and we hope the events we hold will help to make a difference, ” he said.

“For so many people to not have had their skin checked before is also alarming.

“The only positive is hopefully early detection will hold these people in good stead for the future.”

Melanoma is the third most common form of cancer in Australian men and women with more than 12,500 new cases of melanoma diagnosed in Australia every year.

The deadly cancer is diagnosed by a physical examination of a suspicious spot or mole, as well as other moles on the body.

Sunsmart campaign coordinator Carolyn Minto said the number of cases found at the event was a reminder early detection was the key.

“The number found is a little bit surprising, but in WA we have more than 1000 cases a year, ” she said.

“Melanoma is the most common cancer for people between the ages of 15 and 39.

“It is important people become familiar with their own skin – there are certain things which people need to look out for.”

Melanoma WA holds monthly support group meetings at Dot’s Place in Bunbury to provide support for people diagnosed with melanoma.

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