Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) in Australia: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (2024)

Skin

8 Feb

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer in Australia, making up around two-thirds of all diagnosed skin cancers. Due to Australia’s high UV radiation levels, BCC is a major public health concern. While BCC is rarely life-threatening, it can cause significant skin damage and disfigurement if not treated early.

This page provides essential information on Basal Cell Carcinoma, its symptoms, risk factors, prevention, and the latest treatment options available in Australia.

What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)?

Basal Cell Carcinoma is a slow-growing skin cancer that originates in the basal cells of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin). Unlike melanoma, BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can grow deep into surrounding tissues if left untreated.

Common Locations for BCC:

✔ Face, ears, nose, and scalp
✔ Neck, shoulders, and arms
✔ Chest and back

Types of Basal Cell Carcinoma:

✔ Nodular BCC – Appears as a pearly, flesh-colored bump that may bleed easily.
✔ Superficial BCC – A red, scaly patch that grows slowly.
✔ Morpheaform BCC (Sclerosing BCC) – A waxy, scar-like lesion that can grow deeper into the skin.

Basal Cell Carcinoma in Australia: Key Facts

Over 1 million non-melanoma skin cancers, including BCC, are treated annually in Australia.
Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70.
UV exposure is responsible for 95% of BCC cases.
BCC is most common in people over 50, but younger Australians are increasingly affected due to high sun exposure.

(Source: Cancer Council Australia)

Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma

🚨 BCC often appears as:
✔ A shiny, pearly bump that is white, pink, or skin-colored.
✔ A sore that does not heal or repeatedly bleeds and scabs over.
✔ A red, scaly patch that may be mistaken for eczema.
✔ A scar-like area that appears waxy and firm.

🔎 If you notice any of these changes on your skin, consult a doctor or dermatologist immediately.

Risk Factors for Basal Cell Carcinoma

✔ Chronic Sun Exposure – Frequent UV radiation increases the risk.
✔ Fair Skin & Light Features – People with fair skin, blue or green eyes, and blonde or red hair are at higher risk.
✔ History of Sunburns – Multiple sunburns, especially during childhood, increase the likelihood of developing BCC.
✔ Tanning Bed Use – Despite a ban on solariums in Australia, illegal tanning bed use still poses a major risk.
✔ Weakened Immune System – Organ transplant patients and those on immunosuppressive drugs have a higher risk of aggressive BCC.
✔ Older Age – Most cases occur in people over 50, but younger individuals are increasingly affected.

(Source: Cancer Council Australia)

Latest Treatments for Basal Cell Carcinoma in Australia (2024 Updates)

1. Mohs Surgery: The Gold Standard for BCC Removal

Highly effective for high-risk BCC in delicate areas (e.g., face, nose, ears).
Removes cancer layer by layer, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
99% cure rate for primary BCCs.

(Source: Verywell Health)

2. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Superficial BCC

A non-invasive treatment that uses light-activated drugs to destroy cancer cells.
Best for shallow BCCs on the face and scalp.

3. Topical Medications for Early BCC

Imiquimod (Aldara) and 5-Fluorouracil (Efudix) are creams used for superficial BCCs.
Applied daily for several weeks to kill cancer cells.

4. Cryotherapy (Freezing the Cancer Cells)

Uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy early-stage BCC lesions.
Best for small, superficial BCCs.

5. Radiation Therapy for Inoperable BCC

Used when surgery isn’t an option, especially in elderly patients or large, aggressive BCCs.

6. New Targeted Therapy for Advanced BCC (Vismodegib & Sonidegib)

For patients with advanced or recurrent BCC who cannot undergo surgery.
Hedgehog pathway inhibitors that block cancer growth.

(Source: Thermh.org.au)

How to Prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma

✔ Wear SPF50+ sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days).
✔ Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV radiation is strongest.
✔ Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
✔ Stay in the shade whenever possible.
✔ Avoid tanning beds – They are illegal in Australia for a reason!
✔ Check your skin regularly for new growths, sores, or changes in existing moles.

🚨 Annual skin checks with a dermatologist are essential for early detection and treatment.

Early Detection: When to See a Doctor

✔ A sore or bump that doesn’t heal within 4 weeks.
✔ A shiny or scaly growth that keeps growing.
✔ A persistent red patch that looks like a rash but doesn’t go away.
✔ A scar-like area that feels firm and waxy.

⏳ BCC is slow-growing, but early treatment prevents deeper skin damage and complications.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Skin & Stay Informed

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common and preventable type of skin cancer in Australia. By taking sun protection seriously and recognizing early warning signs, you can reduce your risk and ensure early treatment for better outcomes.

✔ Practice sun safety daily.
✔ Check your skin regularly for changes.
✔ Visit a dermatologist for professional skin checks.

Need a Medical Certificate for Skin Cancer Treatment?
If you require a doctor’s note for work due to a skin cancer diagnosis or treatment, Doctorsnote.com.au provides fast and reliable online medical certificates.

DR. R. Singh

Rupi Singh