Specialist dermatologist Dr Ritu Gupta was interviewed on 702 ABC Radio in Sydney for her expert insights on skin cancer and melanoma.
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer, and according to the Australian Skin Cancer Foundation, Australia and New Zealand have the world’s highest incidence of melanoma [1].
Reassuringly, Dr Ritu revealed that the survival rates of melanoma have improved, while the incidence of acquiring this form of skin cancer is not rising and may have levelled off. However, she cited recent trends such as tanning, with tourists loving the “Australian glow,” may be setting things back. Young people often don’t realise the consequences of their actions, but when the lag time is short, UV damage can turn into skin cancer far sooner than they expect.
Dr Ritu further discussed the differences among common forms of skin cancer (BCCs, SCCs, and melanoma). These cancers have different cellular origins; thus, they do not convert into one another. Of the three, BCCs are slow-growing and do not metastasise, while melanomas are invasive and rapidly progressive.
As with previous guestings on the radio show, Dr Ritu entertained calls and texts from listeners. She handled questions on biopsies and excisions for skin cancer, treatments (Fluorouracil and Imiquimod), and the significance of mole mapping in early skin cancer detection.
Dr Ritu also explained why people with darker skin tones have a lower risk of skin cancer, saying it’s because of increased melanin, which absorbs more UV light to help protect the skin. She ended the interview with advice on how to get daily Vitamin D without prolonged sun exposure, stating that it should be done outside peak UV hours of 11 am to 3 pm. Just 15 minutes of sun exposure on the forearms is generally sufficient.
To consult with Dr Ritu, please book online, WhatsApp at 0493 766 096, or call (02) 8014 6500.
[1] Australian Skin Cancer Foundation – What is Skin Cancer?
