Childhood Skin Cancer: What Every Parent Needs to Know
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, making sun protection essential for children. Many parents assume skin cancer only affects adults, but children are not immune. While childhood skin cancer is rare, UV damage during childhood significantly increases the risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers later in life.
As a parent, you play a crucial role in protecting your child’s skin. By understanding the risks, recognising early warning signs and following proven sun protection strategies, you can help prevent childhood skin cancer and promote lifelong healthy skin habits.
Can Children Get Skin Cancer?
Yes, but it is uncommon. Most cases of skin cancer result from long-term sun exposure, which explains why adults experience it more often. However, some children especially those with higher risk factors can still develop skin cancer. This makes early awareness and protection crucial.
Types of Skin Cancer in Children
Melanoma (The Most Dangerous Type)
- Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, though uncommon in children.
- In the U.S., doctors diagnose 300–400 cases of childhood melanoma each year. While Australian statistics are limited, our country’s high UV levels make prevention even more critical.
- Unlike adult melanoma, paediatric melanoma does not always follow the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour variation, Diameter, Evolving). Instead, it may appear as a pink, red, or flesh-coloured bump, making early detection more challenging.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- BCC: The most common skin cancer in adults but rare in children. It typically looks like a shiny, pink, or pearly bump.
- SCC: Another rare childhood skin cancer that may appear as a scaly red patch or sore that does not heal. It occurs more frequently in children with weakened immune systems.
Even though childhood skin cancer is uncommon, UV damage accumulates over time. Preventing sunburns in childhood is one of the most effective ways to lower the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Which Children Face the Highest Risk?
While every child should practice sun safety, some face a significantly higher risk. Understanding these risk factors allows parents to take extra precautions.
Frequent Sun Exposure and UV Damage
- Australia has one of the highest UV radiation levels in the world, making daily sun protection essential.
- Research shows that just one blistering sunburn during childhood can double the risk of melanoma in adulthood.
Fair Skin, Light Hair and Light Eyes
- Children with fair skin, red or blonde hair and blue or green eyes have less melanin, making their skin more vulnerable to UV damage.
Family History of Skin Cancer
- If a parent, sibling, or close relative has had skin cancer, the child may inherit a higher genetic risk.
- Families with a history of melanoma should schedule regular skin checks.
Large or Unusual Moles (Congenital Nevi)
- Some children are born with large moles (congenital nevi), which carry a higher risk of developing into melanoma over time.
Weakened Immune System
- Children with autoimmune conditions, organ transplants, or undergoing chemotherapy have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
How to Protect Your Child’s Skin from Skin Cancer
The good news is that most cases of skin cancer are preventable. By making sun protection a daily habit, parents can lower their child’s risk.
Follow Australia’s Sun Smart Guidelines
Children learn by watching their parents, so setting a good example is crucial. Follow these proven sun protection measures:
- Slip on sun-protective clothing – Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and rash vests.
- Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen – Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat – A hat that covers the face, ears and neck offers the best protection.
- Seek shade – Encourage outdoor play in shaded areas, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.
- Slide on wraparound sunglasses – Protect your child’s eyes from harmful UV radiation.
Make Sun Protection a Daily Habit
- Apply sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days.
- Keep sunscreen in your child’s school bag so they can reapply throughout the day.
Prevent Sunburns and Tanning
- Tanning is a sign of skin damage, not health. Educate teenagers about the dangers of tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.
- Sunburns are preventable dress children appropriately and limit outdoor exposure during peak UV hours.
How to Spot Cancer in Children
Regular skin checks help detect early warning signs before they become serious. If you notice any of the following, see a GP or skin cancer specialist immediately:
- A new or changing mole, especially one that grows, darkens, or develops uneven edges.
- A pink, red, or flesh-coloured bump that looks different from other moles.
- A sore that does not heal or keeps scabbing over.
- Any itchy, bleeding, or crusty spots that do not go away.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- If your child has multiple moles, especially ones that look different from each other.
- If you have a family history of melanoma and notice any unusual skin changes.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Child’s Skin for Life
Protecting your child’s skin from Australia’s harsh sun is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health. UV damage starts in childhood, but you can prevent skin cancer by teaching lifelong sun safety habits.
By following daily sun protection measures, scheduling regular skin checks and staying aware of early warning signs, you can help your child grow up with healthy, protected skin.
At Molechex, we specialise in comprehensive skin checks and early detection of skin cancer. Our experienced skin cancer doctors provide thorough assessments for children and adults, ensuring peace of mind and proactive care. If you are concerned about your child’s skin, consider booking a professional skin check with our team. This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have concerns about your child’s skin, consult a qualified GP or skin cancer specialist.
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