Not only is skin cancer the most common cancer in our Country but also Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In Australia, melanoma is the third most common cancer, with more than 13,000 people diagnosed each year (see more updated statistics here). The majority of cases occur in people aged 50-69 years, and the incidence of melanoma has been increasing over the past few decades. While the cause of melanoma is not fully understood, it is thought to be associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. In order to reduce your risk of developing melanoma, it is important to protect your skin from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and COVERING UP when outdoors.
To summarise there are two things you can start today to prevent skin cancer:
// Practice safe sun habits
// Conduct regular skin self-exams to prevent skin cancer
But what does that mean exactly?
Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer With a Complete Approach
According to the Cancer Council NSW, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds/lamps. Ultraviolet radiation is a known human carcinogen, meaning it causes cancer. You can protect yourself from UV radiation by limiting your time in the sun, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Alongside weekly self-exams to check for changes in your skin, It’s also important to conduct regular checks with the doctor – even if you don’t have any worrying signs. However, if you notice anything new or different, make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist immediately. Early detection is key to treating skin cancer.
During your appointment, your skin cancer specialist will evaluate your skin and may perform a biopsy if they notice anything suspicious. A biopsy is the only way to confirm whether a growth is cancerous or benign. If the biopsy comes back positive for cancer, a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.
While skin cancer is serious, it is also very treatable when caught early. That’s why prevention and early detection are so important. By taking proactive steps and being aware of any changes in your skin, you can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
There are a number of things that can increase your risk for skin cancer. Some of these are out of your control, like your family history or genetics. But others, like how much time you spend in the sun, are entirely within your control. Here are some of the most common risk factors for skin cancer:
// Excessive sun exposure – this includes both UVB and UVA radiation. Be sure to use sunscreen year-round, even on cloudy days. And remember, you can still get sunburned when you’re in the shade or inside a car!
// Fair skin – people with fair skin have less melanin, which means they’re less protected from the sun’s harmful rays.
// A history of sunburns – just one bad sunburn can triple your risk for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
// Moles – having a large number of moles (more than 50) or moles that are larger than a quarter can increase your risk for melanoma.
// Weakened immune system – if you have HIV/AIDS or are taking medications that suppress your immune system, you’re at a higher risk for all types of skin cancer.
// Personal or family history of skin cancer – if someone in your family has had skin cancer, you’re more likely to develop it as well.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer but it’s also one of the most common. By being aware of your risk factors and taking some simple precautions, you can greatly reduce your chances of developing skin cancer. So make sure to wear sunscreen year-round and check your skin regularly for any changes!
King Street Skin Cancer’s mission is to give the highest contribution to the prevention and treatment of skin cancer in the Illawarra. We offer leading practitioners, specialised in skin cancer medicine and surgery.
To book an appointment for a skin check, do not hesitate to contact our welcoming staff today.