Melanoma

Melanoma is a common form of cancer that starts in the skin’s melanocyte cells. If left untreated, melanoma can spread to other areas of the body, including the lymph nodes, internal organs and bones.

Melanoma can manifest as a new spot or change in an existing freckle or mole. Changes that could indicate melanoma include:

• Colour – variation of colour with different shades of brown or black
• Shape – asymmetrical or have irregular borders
• Size – growing bigger or be larger than 6mm
• Height – raised
• Irritation – itchy, bleeding or crusting

Considered Australia’s ‘national cancer’, melanoma of the skin is the country’s third most diagnosed cancer. Over 18,000 new invasive melanoma cases are diagnosed each year.

If diagnosed at stage I, melanoma can be cured in most cases. Advances in immunotherapy and other interventions have improved outcomes for patients diagnosed in later stages. However, over 1,400 Australians will lose their life to this deadly cancer that can affect young and old.