Skin Doctors on Barr Street found 18 melanomas in the first two weeks of the clinic being operational

A new skin clinic in Cairns has detected a sobering number of melanomas within the first two weeks of opening, underscoring the importance of regular skin checks and early detection. Have you had your skin checked?

Bree James gets a skin check during the opening of a new skin clinic in Cairns. Picture: Supplied.

A staggering 18 melanomas were detected in the first two weeks after the official opening of a new skin clinic in Far North Queensland, highlighting the critical importance of regular skin checks and early detection.

Member for Barron River, Bree James, helped officially open the Skin Doctors on Barr Street this week and emphasised the significance of the findings, especially during Melanoma March.

“Regular skin checks are crucial because early detection can be lifesaving. Skin cancer, including melanoma — the deadliest skin cancer — can develop silently and progress rapidly if left untreated,” she said.

“It’s so important we are familiar with our skin — the lumps, bumps, and beauty spots — and keep an eye on any changes.”

Barron River MP Bree James gets a skin check by Dr Millie Ghetia during the opening of a new skin clinic in Cairns. Picture: Supplied.

Member for Barron River, Bree James, helped officially open the Skin Doctors on Barr Street this week and emphasised the significance of these findings, especially during Melanoma March. Photographed with Brett Olds. Picture: Supplied.

The statistics from the new clinic are a wake-up call to the community, she said.

“The fact that 18 melanomas were discovered in such a short time highlights how common these cases are,” Ms James said.

“It means we need to talk more about skin checks — not just for adults but for children as well. Melanoma can impact all ages, regardless of sun exposure.”

Melanomas can appear anywhere on the body, even in areas that rarely see sunlight, such as the soles of the feet, between the toes, or underneath toenails.

Skin Doctors on Barr Street doctors Ajay Mistry and Millika Ghetia have detected 18 melanomas and 300 other cancers on their patient's skin since opening only eight weeks ago, highlighting the desperate need for more skin doctors in Cairns. Picture: Brendan Radke

Managing director of Skin Doctors on Barr Street, Jason Christopher, said the discovery of so many melanomas in just two weeks underscored the urgent need for accessible, well-equipped skin clinics in the region.

“We’re fortunate to have a dedicated team who can spot these issues early, but not all general practitioners are trained to identify these warning signs,” he said.

In one recent case, a patient came in for a routine check and was diagnosed with a stage two melanoma.

“It was only through our thorough skin checks that this potentially life-threatening condition was caught in time,” Mr Christopher said.

“This case is a stark reminder that melanoma can strike when you least expect it. If it weren’t for the team here at Skin Doctors on Barr Street, it would have gone undetected.”

Cross section image shows skin tissue cancerous cells, melanoma. Picture: iStock.

The incident further highlights the need for specialised clinics in regional communities.

“We built our practice on the motto that we should serve our community from pre-life to post-life. This includes making skin health a top priority. I’m so proud of our team, who are committed to ensuring people are checked regularly,” Mr Christopher said.

During the month of March, known as Melanoma March, the clinic is encouraging people of all ages, skin types, and sun exposure levels to visit for skin checks.

Looking forward Mr Christopher stressed the importance of prioritising skin health, just as people do with heart or mental health.

“After all, skin is our largest organ, and it’s up to us to protect it,” he said.

“It takes just 15 minutes for a check, but that small investment in your health could save your life.”

To make an appointment for a skin check visit Skin Doctors on Barr Street or call 07 4242 5300.

Originally published as Skin Doctors on Barr Street found 18 melanomas in the first two weeks of the clinic being operational