National Skin Cancer Action Week – 15th – 21st November 2020

Each year Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists come together for National Skin Cancer Action Week. This is an important reminder to use sun protection and of the importance of early skin cancer detection for all Australians.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Every year in Australia skin cancers account for around 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers. Around 2000 people die from this disease every year.

However, more than 95% of skin cancer cases are caused by unprotected exposure to UV radiation from the sun, meaning it is a nearly entirely preventable cancer.

There are five simple things you can do to protect yourself and greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer.

• Slip on sun-protective clothing
• Slop on SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go outdoors and reapply every two hours afterwards
• Slap on a broad-brim hat to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
• Seek shade
• Slide on sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian standards

See your doctor if you have any concerns. We offer skin checks here at the clinic.

Reference: Cancer Council