Key Takeaways
- Mohs treatment is a delicate and effective method for removing skin cancer, but it can be expensive and may not be widely available.
- Skin cancer is a chronic disease, and once you’ve had one skin cancer, you’re likely to have more.
- Prevention is key, and using sunscreen alone is not enough to protect against skin cancer.
- Early detection of skin cancer can lead to more effective treatment, and regular skin checks are essential.
- The Bay of Plenty region has a high rate of skin cancer, and there are long wait times for skin cancer surgery at Tauranga Hospital.
Introduction to Mohs Treatment
Mohs treatment is a specialized surgical procedure used to remove skin cancer. It involves taking tissue from the affected area and examining it under a microscope to determine the extent of the cancer. This approach allows for the removal of the cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. However, Mohs treatment can be expensive, with costs ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 in New Zealand. Ray Le Prou, a Pāpāmoa man, opted for a less expensive surgery without Mohs treatment, which cost around $3,000, but he was not satisfied with the results and wished he had chosen the Mohs treatment for better aesthetic results.
The Risks and Consequences of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a significant health concern, with about 80% of cancers in New Zealand being skin-related. According to Dr. Franz Strydom, founder of Skinspots, skin cancer is a chronic disease, and once you’ve had one skin cancer, you’re likely to have more. This highlights the importance of prevention and early detection. Strydom recommends using UV protective clothing, sunshades, or umbrellas to protect against the sun, as sunscreen alone is not enough. The Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty also emphasizes the importance of sun protection, stating that about 90% of skin cancers are preventable.
Prevention and Early Detection
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of skin cancer. The Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty recommends slipping on protective clothing, seeking shade, slopping on broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, slapping on a wide-brimmed hat, and wrapping on some sunnies when the UV index is 3 or above. Early detection is also crucial, as it can lead to more effective treatment. The Cancer Society recommends checking your skin regularly and consulting a health practitioner trained in melanoma detection if you notice any new or changing spots, moles, or freckles. This can include a GP, nurse, or specialist such as a dermatologist, surgeon, or plastic surgeon.
Access to Skin Cancer Treatment
Access to skin cancer treatment is a significant concern in the Bay of Plenty region. Data from Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora shows that there were 98 patients on the cancer lesion surgery waitlist at Tauranga Hospital as of October 1, with an average wait time of 39 days. The Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (PHO) has implemented a funding change for skin cancer patients, which may affect access to community-based treatment. The PHO’s decision to refer patients who are not Community Services Card holders or do not have a suspected melanoma lesion to the hospital for treatment may exacerbate the existing wait times.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, skin cancer is a significant health concern in New Zealand, particularly in the Bay of Plenty region. Mohs treatment is a delicate and effective method for removing skin cancer, but it can be expensive and may not be widely available. Prevention is key, and using sunscreen alone is not enough to protect against skin cancer. Early detection is crucial, and regular skin checks are essential. The Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty and health professionals recommend taking a proactive approach to sun protection and seeking medical attention if you notice any changes in your skin. By prioritizing prevention and early detection, we can reduce the risk of skin cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
