Is Australia the melanoma capital of the world?

Australia is the skin cancer capital of the world. More than 11,500 Australian men and women are diagnosed with a melanoma each year, and an estimated 434,000 people are treated for one or more non-melanoma1 skin cancers. Skin cancer accounts for over 80% of all new cases of cancer diagnosed in Australia each year.

What is the Melanoma Foundation?

The Richard David Kann Melanoma Foundation is a non-profit organization involved in skin cancer education. We educate the community through our SunSmart America™ K-12 Curriculum which provides school-based learning on sun safety and skin cancer.

Which state in Australia has the highest rate of melanoma?

By way of comparison, the age-standardised incidence of melanoma (2004–2008) was 48.7 per 100,000 persons in Australia – highest in Queensland (64.3) and lowest in the Northern Territory (30.5).

How much does melanoma treatment cost Australia?

Nationally, the annual estimated cost for treatment of all new cases of in situ and invasive melanomas was AU$201 million (95% CI: AU$187 to AU$216 million).

Why is melanoma so high in Australia?

As ozone levels gradually deplete around the globe we are exposed to more harmful UV radiation from the sun, which can lead to melanoma.

Is melanoma curable?

A cure is often possible. Melanoma is found in the outer layers of skin and in the lower layers of the dermis. The likelihood of a cure is still good. The cancer cells have spread beyond the skin and are found in a lymph node(s) or lymph vessel(s) closest to where the melanoma began.

Is chemo covered by Medicare Australia?

The Australian Government may help cover some of your chemotherapy costs if you have a current Medicare card. Ask your hospital or treatment centre about the fees. Certain private health packages can also help to cover some cancer treatments, depending on your level of cover.

Can a GP remove a melanoma?

An excision biopsy is a quick and simple procedure that can be done by your GP, dermatologist or a surgeon. You will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Then your doctor will use a scalpel to remove the mole and some surrounding tissue. The wound will probably be closed with a couple stitches.