In brief
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and more than 2,000 Australians die from it each year. The 3 main types are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, the most dangerous form.
- Melanomas commonly appear as a new spot, or an existing spot, freckle or mole that changes colour, size or shape.
- Check your skin regularly, using a hand-held mirror for your back and the back of your neck.
- If you notice anything new or unusual on your skin, see your doctor.
How it works
Everyone is at risk of sun damage and skin cancer, whatever their skin type. Even mild sunburn and tanning can contribute to skin cell damage that can lead to melanoma. People who work outdoors are advised to use sun protection all year round.
Whenever UV levels are 3 or higher, use a combination of sun protection. Slip on sun-protective clothing, slop on SPF50+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, slap on a broad-brimmed hat, seek shade, and slide on wrap-around sunglasses. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply it every 2 hours.
Connections
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Skin cancer can be raised by
Even mild sunburn and tanning can contribute to skin cell damage that can lead to melanoma, so sun protection is advised whenever UV levels are 3 or higher.
Source: Better Health Channel (Victorian Government), Skin cancer
Skin cancer affects
The 3 main types of skin cancer are named after the type of skin cell they start from.
Source: Better Health Channel (Victorian Government), Skin cancer
Sources
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Summarised from the Better Health Channel. Sources read on 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.