Skin Cancer - Going Beyond the Surface
The Problem
It’s often said that Australia is the skin cancer capital of the world. When you look at the numbers, it’s easy to understand why. Each year, over 18,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, while non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), affect hundreds of thousands more. Tragically, over 1,300 Australians lose their lives to skin cancer annually.
Skin cancer in Australia is driven by our sunny climate, high UV radiation levels, and outdoor way of life. Protecting against harmful sun exposure and catching signs of the disease early are essential in reducing its impact. Additionally, exciting advancements in research and innovative treatments are now emerging, offering new ways to combat and limit the often-devastating effects of this condition.
The scale of the problem
|
Skin Cancer Statistics (Australia) |
2024 |
|
Estimated number of new melanoma cases diagnosed (2023) |
18,257 (10,639 males and 7,618 females) |
|
Proportion of all new cancer cases attributed to melanoma |
11% |
|
Estimated number of deaths from melanoma (2023) |
1,314 (853 males and 461 females) |
|
Five-year survival rate for melanoma |
94% |
|
Lifetime risk of melanoma diagnosis by age 85 |
1 in 17 (1 in 14 for males, 1 in 21 for females) |
|
People living with melanoma (diagnosed 2014–2018) |
65,147 |
*Sources include Cancer Australia and the Australian Government Department of Health.
Why We Are Fighting It
Skin cancer is almost entirely preventable, and when detected early, most cases can be treated successfully. However, for those with advanced or metastatic skin cancers, treatment becomes far more complex, often involving invasive procedures, lengthy recovery times, and a significant impact on quality of life.
The fight against skin cancer is not only about reducing its prevalence but also improving treatment options and outcomes for those diagnosed. The rising incidence of melanoma among younger Australians and the increasing number of cases with perineural spread—where cancer invades nearby nerves—highlight the urgent need for innovative research and better patient care.
With new therapies such as immunotherapy and personalised medicine offering hope for improved survival rates, ongoing investment in research is essential to help those affected by this disease live longer, healthier lives.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer, each differing in severity and treatment options:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least dangerous type of skin cancer, BCC typically develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin. While rarely fatal, untreated BCCs can grow and cause significant damage to surrounding tissue.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is the second most common skin cancer and can be more aggressive than BCC. It often appears as scaly red patches, open sores, or wart-like growths and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
- Melanoma: Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, capable of spreading rapidly to other organs. Early-stage melanomas are highly treatable, but advanced cases can be life-threatening. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to the sun, and is more likely to affect younger Australians compared to other cancers.
Innovative Research - Shedding Light on Prevention and Progress
The University of Queensland’s Dermatology Research Centre (DRC), in partnership with the PA Research Foundation, is driving innovation in the fight against melanoma and other skin cancers. Over the past decade, the DRC has pioneered advancements in imaging technology, genetic analysis, and early detection. One of their key breakthroughs, the VECTRA Whole Body 360 3D Imaging System, allows clinicians to monitor skin changes with precision, combining phenotypic traits like sun damage and mole density with genetic insights to identify high-risk individuals.
In addition to melanoma, significant progress is being made in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), one of the most common and potentially fatal skin cancers in Queensland. The DESQUAMATE immunotherapy trial at the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) has achieved remarkable results, with two-thirds of participants showing complete responses. “What we’re seeing now is a shift in the paradigm of how we treat SCC,” said A/Prof Rahul Ladwa, a PAH oncologist leading the trial. “These patients have had surgical operable disease where we’ve actively said, ‘we’re not going to do surgery because you’ve had such a fantastic response.’ It’s an amazing outcome.”
Precision prevention remains at the forefront of the DRC’s mission, integrating behavioural education and technological innovation to detect melanoma earlier than ever before. By analysing genetic and environmental risk factors, researchers are tailoring prevention strategies to individual patients. For younger Australians under 40, where genetics plays a significant role, genetic counselling provides families with critical tools to understand and manage their risks. This approach is helping to reduce melanoma-related mortality, which remains the highest among cancers in this age group.
Through innovative technologies, clinical trials, and a patient-centred focus, the DRC and PAH teams are transforming skin cancer care in Australia. Expanding access to imaging systems and telehealth services ensures that rural and regional Australians benefit from these advancements. With immunotherapy reshaping how SCC is managed and the rollout of state-of-the-art imaging systems to regional areas, researchers are bringing the dream of a world without skin cancer closer to reality.
Robert Myles with his two grandchildren.
A Builder’s Battle with Cancer: Robert’s Story
As a father of four and grandfather of three, Robert Myles has always been a hands-on, family-focused man. But in 2022, his life took a challenging turn when he was diagnosed with stage four squamous cell carcinoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Living in Atherton, Far North Queensland, Robert feared his illness would keep him from the work he loved and the family who relied on him. That all changed when he became part of the DESQUAMATE clinical trial at the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH), which offered him new hope.
Robert’s response to the immunotherapy treatment was nothing short of remarkable. “I’m feeling fantastic, better than I’ve felt in years,” he shared. From his very first round of treatment, the tumour on his neck shrank dramatically, and he continued to improve without experiencing the side effects he had feared. To his astonishment, he was able to keep working as a builder throughout his treatment. Now cancer-free and off all medications, Robert says, “I feel better than I have in a long time.”
Robert attributes his recovery to the dedicated team at PAH, including oncologist Dr. Rahul Ladwa and Clinical Trial Coordinator Dieu Le, whose care and expertise guided him through every step. “They’ve been incredible from the very beginning, explaining everything so clearly and making the process as smooth as possible,” he said. Having previously received care at PAH for a hernia, Robert didn’t hesitate to return when this opportunity arose. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of professionals to guide me through my treatment.”
Through it all, Robert’s family has been a source of strength and encouragement. It was his children who first convinced him to seek medical attention for the lump on his neck, and they’ve been by his side every step of the way. “My kids have been amazing—asking questions at appointments, listening with me, and giving me so much support,” he said. Grateful for a second chance, Robert now cherishes the bonds he’s built with his family and hopes his story will inspire others to seek life-changing treatments like the one he received.
A Future Free from Skin Cancer: The Power of Innovation and Support
As Australia continues to face the pressing challenge of skin cancer, innovative research and clinical trials like those supported by the PA Research Foundation (PARF) offer hope for a brighter future. With advancements in imaging technology, immunotherapy, and precision medicine, researchers are transforming the way skin cancer is detected, treated, and prevented. As demonstrated by Robert’s inspiring story, these innovations are making a real difference in the lives of Australians, offering new treatments and extending lives.
The future of skin cancer care lies in continued investment in groundbreaking research, which is only possible with the support of donors. PARF’s commitment to funding these vital projects is helping bring life-saving therapies to more patients, including those in rural and regional areas who may not otherwise have access. By supporting research today, donors are directly contributing to a future where skin cancer no longer claims lives at the rate it does now.
Donations make an immediate and lasting impact, helping fund essential clinical trials, cutting-edge technology, and life-saving treatments. Without this generous support, the path to a cure would be much longer, and the future uncertain. As we look forward to a world free from the devastating effects of skin cancer, every contribution counts in creating a healthier, brighter tomorrow for all.
