Skin cancer explained
Skin cancer is common. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, and Queensland has the highest rate in Australia.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radation from the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer. When your skin is damaged by UV radiation, like a sunburn, changes happen in the structure and function of skin cells. If the UV damage continues, the cells become less able to repair which increases the risk of skin cancer.
Quick facts
- In 2024, 45% of adults and 47% of children in Queensland reported being sunburnt in the previous 12 months.
- In 2023–24, Queenslanders had over 37,000 episodes of care for skin cancer in Queensland hospitals.
- In 2022, 4249 Queenslanders were diagnosed with melanoma—the most serious form of skin cancer.
Types of skin cancer
There are 3 main types of skin cancer, they are related to the type of skin cells where the cancer occurs. They are:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)—a type of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells of the top layer (epidermis) of the skin.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)—begins in the squamous cells, which are found in several places in the body including the top layer (epidermis) of the skin, in the main airways of the lung and in the cervix.
- Melanoma—a tumour of melanin-forming cells, especially a malignant tumour associated with skin cancer.
There are other types of skin spots and changes that are not skin cancer but might be a warning sign. A key step in preventing skin cancer is knowing your skin and noticing changes. Speak to your doctor about any concerns you have and ask about having a skin check.
Read more about these types of skin cancer, including signs, symptoms and treatment.
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