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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 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
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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.
- Cancer Council. Understanding Skin Cancer A guide for people with cancer, their families and friends First published March 2012. Edition: December 2021.
- Cancer Council. About Skin Cancer. Available at: cancercouncil.com.au/skin-cancer/about-skin-cancer (Accessed July 2025)
- Cancer Council. About melanoma skin cancer. Available at: cancercouncil.com.au/melanoma/about-melanoma (Accessed July 2025)
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Skin Cancer in Australia. Available at: aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/skin-cancer-in-australia/summary (Accessed July 2025)