March is Melanoma Awareness Month.
It represents the third most common type of cancer in Australia. While most people think about melanoma being on their arms, legs or back, a significant number of cases occur in the head and neck region.
The most common areas of the head and neck where melanomas occur are the
These are the areas of the head and neck that tend to have high sun exposure. This is especially important to be aware of when living in Australia as our sun and UV are extremely strong.
If not diagnosed early, melanoma can spread into the lymph nodes in your neck and into other organs including your brain, lungs, bone and liver.
Symptoms and Signs to Watch For
Like all cancers, early detection is critical. If picked up early, 90% of melanomas can be cured with surgery. Being aware of the symptoms and signs to watch out for are so important.
Things to look out for include
Whilst the majority of melanomas are detected by your General Practitioners, Skin specialist, or Dermatologist, you may need to see a Head and Neck Surgeon for further treatment. This may be required if you need a larger operation and reconstruction to remove the melanoma, or if the melanoma has spread to lymph nodes in your neck, and a neck dissection is needed.
Melanoma Awareness Month is a timely reminder that vigilance and early detection make a significant difference.
If you notice a persistent skin change in the head or neck region, or an unexplained lump in the neck, seek advice from your GP promptly.
Early assessment allows for appropriate investigation and, where necessary, referral for specialist management.
Dr. Peter Floros acknowledges and pays respect to the traditional owners of the land on which we meet and work across Australia; we pay our respects to the elders, past, present and emerging. We encourage our staff and clients to join us wherever they are in Australia by being informed about whose land they are on and paying their respects.
