Together let’s combat Australia’s ‘national cancer’

Unfortunately, more than a quarter of Australians still admit sun protection isn’t part of their daily routine. No wonder Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world! Currently 2 in 3 Australians are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. The slightly better news is 95% of those skin cancers can be successfully treated – as long as they are detected early.

What is your risk of skin cancer?

Your personal risk of skin cancer is determined by many contributing factors. The key ones include:

1. Your age
2. Your ethnicity
3. Your family history
4. Your skin type and complexion
5. Your sun exposure and history of sunburn
6. Any previous skin cancer treatment you may have needed
7. How often you get a skin check done by your doctor

If you would like to get an idea of your risk, there are many personal risk assessment tools available online that calculate your risk based on your answers to evidence-based questions. With thanks to the Melanoma Research Division of QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute based in Queensland, one such tool can be found here.

We encourage you to consult your GP about your risk of skin cancer

Important action for you to take

Protective measures

Sid the seagull kicked off the Cancer Council’s “Slip Slop Slap” campaign over 40 years ago, and his three basic precautions are still vital today.

The Cancer Council has added two S’s in recent years to make the current recommended sun protection measures,  Ochre has gone one better and added a 6^th measure “Seeking…your doctor’s advice” You could even add a 7^th S Skin Check….have your skin checked every 12 months if you are over 30 or earlier if advised by your doctor (family history of melanoma)

1. Slip… on sun-protective clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible.
2. Slop… on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
3. Slap… on a hat, ideally with a broad brim to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
4. Seek… shade.
5. Slide… on some sunglasses that meet Australian Standards.
6. Seeking….your doctor’s advice
7. Skin Check…at least every 12 months or as advised by your doctor

Given that 95% of skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early, we believe adding another “S” to the above list is critical – Seek.  Seek medical advice without delay if you spot any skin growth or mole of concern!

The Cancer Council and Ochre Health recommend a skin check every 12 months, especially for people over the age of 30.

Book an appointment with your GP today – it could save your life!