Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with approximately two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime. Sadly, around 2000 Australians will die from this disease this year, and it is estimated that almost twice as many men as women will die from melanoma this year alone.
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, for example, by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Become familiar with the look of your skin, particularly spots and moles, so you pick up any changes that might suggest a skin cancer.
Remember when going out in the sun, use the following five forms of sun protection:
- Slip on sun protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
- Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before going outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
- Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
- Seek shade.
- Slide on sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards
If you would like a skin check, call the GP Clinic for an appointment on 24134. If you would like to read more on this topic, please visit Cancer Council website: https://www.cancer.org.au