About skin cancer

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. 
The skin, like every organ and tissue in the body, is made up of microscopic building blocks known as cells. Skin cancer occurs when these cells become abnormal and begin to grow at an uncontrolled rate.1

There are two main types depending on which type of cell the cancer starts in:2

  • Melanoma – about 1 in 100 skin cancers
  • Non melanoma skin cancer, primarily 
    • Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)  – about 1 in 3 skin cancers
    • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – about 2 in 3 skin cancers

Skin cancer treatment

Skin cancer can be managed with a variety of treatment options, including radiation therapy, topical medications, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. The treatment recommended by your doctors will depend on:

  • The type of skin cancer (melanoma or non-melanoma)
  • Whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body
  • Your overall health and individual needs

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Around 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.4

Support services

Cancer Council Australia

Australia’s leading cancer charity, working to reduce the impact of cancer through prevention, support, and research.

Targeting Cancer

Targeting Cancer seeks to raise awareness about radiation therapy as a treatment option for cancer.

Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA)

Melanoma Institute Australia is dedicated to preventing and curing melanoma through innovative, world-class research, treatment and education programs.