Anyone can develop skin cancer, and the risk increases over time. Some people are at higher risk, including those with fair skin that burns easily, naturally blonde or red hair, numerous freckles, a history of intense sun exposure or sunburn, or a previous skin cancer.
Early detection makes treatment much easier. Check your skin monthly, and see a doctor if you notice any mark that is growing, bleeding, changing in appearance, not healing, or if an existing mole changes shape, texture or colour.
What we look for
Actinic keratosis — pink or red, rough-surfaced spots on sun-exposed skin; a pre-cancerous condition that responds well to early treatment.
Basal cell carcinoma (rodent ulcer) — usually painless, often first noticed as a scab that bleeds occasionally and doesn’t fully heal.
Squamous cell carcinoma — a scaly or crusty patch with a red, inflamed base, sometimes resembling an irritated wart.
Melanoma — the most serious type, usually an irregular brown or black spot that can start in an existing mole or on previously normal skin. See our melanoma page for the warning signs to watch for.