When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is key. Unfortunately, many Australians are still diagnosed too late, leading to devastating consequences. This was the case for Ashleigh Simrajh, a 23-year-old woman from the Gold Coast, who was diagnosed with terminal skin cancer after two doctors failed to provide adequate care in a timely manner. In this blog post, we will share her story and discuss the importance of early detection, as well as how to find an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor.
The Importance of Early Detection:
Skin cancer is alarmingly common in Australia, with more than 2 out of every 3 Australians developing it in their lifetime. As 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer every year, it’s important to get regular skin checks as a preventive measure. Early detection can save lives, as skin cancer is treatable when caught early.
Ashleigh Simrajh’s Story:
Ashleigh Simrajh discovered a lump on her thigh at the age of 20. However, her first doctor misdiagnosed her condition as a cyst and sent her to a surgeon for further management. The surgeon quoted her exorbitant private “cosmetic removal” costs, or the alternative of a 2-year wait for removal via the public system. Neither doctor offered to perform a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. Over the next 12 months, the lump continued to grow, became painful, and prevented her from lying on it or wearing clothing that covered it. She finally visited a third doctor at a skin clinic, who performed a biopsy straight away. Sadly, the diagnosis of terminal melanoma was confirmed, and Ms. Simrajh passed away at the age of 23.
Finding an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor:
If you’re concerned about skin cancer, it’s important to find a qualified doctor who specializes in its diagnosis, treatment, and management. Look for an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor who has undergone high-level training and testing with the Skin Cancer College Australasia. This symbol is easy to recognize and identifies doctors who have proven skills in the field. The Skin Cancer College Australasia’s website provides access to a directory of over 680 proven practitioners. Simply click on the “Locate a Doctor” link, enter your suburb, select an appropriate search radius you can travel, e.g., 25 km radius, and click GO. With a competent doctor from this list, you can arm yourself with the best defense against previous UV exposure and have regular skin cancer checks.
The story of Ashleigh Simrajh is a tragic reminder of the importance of early detection and the need to seek a second opinion if you’re not satisfied with your doctor’s diagnosis or treatment plan. By finding an Accredited Skin Cancer Doctor, you can take a proactive approach to your health and protect yourself against this common and potentially deadly disease.
