Non-melanoma skin cancers

In Australia, the number of skin cancer cases outnumbers the number of all other types of cancers combined. At least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.

There are three major types of skin cancers: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC and BCC are the most common forms of skin cancer and are not usually life-threatening if detected early. Because they are so common, SCCs and BCCs contribute considerable costs to the Australian healthcare system.

Partnerships

In December 2004, QIMR formed a partnership with Suncorp as part of the Suncorp Skin Cancer Initiative. QIMR benefits not only from Suncorp sponsorship, but from Suncorp's commitment to educating Queenslanders about the dangers of sun exposure. Suncorp has raised over $1.2 million for skin cancer research at QIMR.

Our research focuses on: 

  • Conducting the largest study of skin cancer in Queensland, QSkin
  • Researching the safety and efficacy of sunscreens
  • Identifying tumour genes in cancer-prone families
  • Studying the biological mechanisms that influence skin cancer growth, such as the way UV light causes DNA damage and cell growth
  • Developing animal models for melanoma
  • Surveying the community in Nambour, Queensland to explore environmental influences (like diet) on skin cancer development
  • Investigating the genetics of basal cell carcinoma syndrome and basal cell carcinoma
  • Partnering with Suncorp Skin Cancer Initiative to raise awareness of sun safety

Our recent research has shown:

  • A diet with relatively low intakes of meat, fried foods and full-fat dairy products was associated with almost half the risk of new SCCs compared with a diet high in meat and fat intake.
  • Eating leafy green vegetables and other sources of selenium can reduce your risk of BCC by 40%.

Research groups involved in skin cancer research: