Gold Coast Skin Centre

Did you know that during daily activities, such as walking the dog, gardening or hanging out the washing, you can get caught off guard by UV radiation you're not conscious of?

This week we’re encouraging you to protect your skin from UV exposure and make sun protection a daily habit to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer

Myth: Only older people get skin cancer.

Fact: While the risk increases with age, skin cancer can affect people of any age. Regular skin checks are important for everyone, regardless of age.

A big welcome to Dr Paul Ferguson who is joining us this October.

Dr Paul Ferguson brings more than 20 years of experience in the detection, prevention and treatment of skin cancer to patients.

A graduate of the University of Queensland, Dr Paul spent eight years working in hospital surgical settings before undertaking additional training in skin cancer medicine within general practice. He has since dedicated his career exclusively to skin cancer medicine, caring for patients across the Gold Coast for many years. His extensive training enables him to diagnose and treat a broad range of skin cancers and skin conditions.

Committed to the early detection and effective management of skin cancer, Dr Paul focuses on evidence-based care, using non-surgical treatment options where appropriate while also providing advanced surgical management for more complex cases. He values clear communication and works closely with patients to ensure they understand their diagnosis and treatment options.

Education:

- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (The University of Queensland), 1992
- Advanced Certificate in Skin Cancer Medicine
- Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Medicine
- Professional Diploma of Skin Cancer Surgery
- Professional Diploma of Dermoscopy
- Advanced Certificate in Aesthetic Medicine

https://www.skincancercentres.com.au/dr-paul-ferguson-at-gold-coast-skin-centre

Many skin cancers develop slowly and may not show obvious warning signs at first.

Routine skin checks matter, even if you’ve never had a concerning spot before.

Around 500,000 Australians have a common non-melanoma skin cancer surgically removed each year.

New data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) shows that around 2% of Australians have a common non-melanoma skin cancer surgically removed each year. Common non-melanoma skin cancer is estimated to be up to three times as common as all other cancers combined.

Rates are higher among men, older Australians and people living in regional areas.

Being aware of changes to your skin and speaking with a health professional about anything concerning can help identify changes that may require further assessment.

Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Estimating common non-melanoma skin cancer incidence and mortality in Australia, 2026.

Myth: Sunscreen is only needed outdoors.

Fact: UV exposure happens anywhere outdoors and even through windows.

This is your reminder to prioritise your skin health by scheduling your next appointment.

We say welcome to Dr Rebecca Ford.

Dr Rebecca Ford is a General Practitioner with a special interest in skin cancer medicine and surgery. She completed her medical degree at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, before gaining broad clinical experience at Waikato Hospital. She then worked in general practice before completing specialist General Practice training and becoming a Fellow of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (FRNZCGP).

Dr Ford has been practising as a General Practitioner for more than six years and has undertaken additional training in dermatoscopy, skin cancer medicine and skin cancer surgery. She provides comprehensive skin cancer checks, assessment of suspicious skin lesions, skin cancer management, and skin cancer surgery where clinically appropriate.

Dr Ford is committed to delivering patient-centred care with a focus on achieving the best possible functional and cosmetic outcomes. She values early detection and prevention and enjoys helping patients maintain healthy skin through regular skin checks and education.

Education - FRNZCGP, MBChB, MApplSci, BEd, DipTeach

- Certificate of Dermatoscopy
- Professional Certificate of Skin Cancer Surgery
- Advanced Certificate of Skin Cancer Medicine

https://www.skincancercentres.com.au/dr-rebecca-ford-at-gold-coast-skin-centre

Skin cancer doesn’t only appear on areas that see the sun, it may develop anywhere on the body.

If you notice something new, or a mole that looks different than before, it’s important to have it reviewed by a doctor.

Daily moments outdoors, walking the dog, school pick-ups, weekend sport may expose your skin to harmful UV without you realising.

Ask your doctor at your next appointment if something is of concern.

Even in winter, UV rays can affect the skin.

Applying sunscreen daily is recommended to help protect against sun-related skin damage. Did you know an adult typically needs around 7 tablespoons to cover exposed areas?

Regular SPF use may also help reduce the appearance of UV-related skin changes over time.

https://hubs.li/Q04gWFPg0