Downloads
Skin cancer screening – position statement
We aim to provide documents in an accessible format. If you're having problems using a document with your accessibility tools, please contact us for help.
Publication date:
Date last updated:
Publication type:
Strategy or framework
Audience:
General public
Language:
English
Description:
Screening for skin cancer does not meet the criterial outline in the Population Based Screening Framework. The Standing Committee on Screening supports Cancer Council Australia’s position statement on skin cancer screening and early detection. Cancer Council Australia does not recommend mass or population-based screening for:
- non-melanoma skin cancer, as the disease in the majority of cases is not life-threatening or serious enough to cause long term illness
- melanoma, as research indicates that current diagnostic practices for melanoma are not optimal in terms of accuracy or cost-effectiveness and there is insufficient evidence that screening the general population offers reduced morbidity and mortality.
The Standing Committee on Screening statement was updated in August 2017 to ensure continued alignment with Cancer Council Australia’s 2014 statement.