Own Your Tone- Use the five forms of sun protection
National Skin Cancer Action Week 2018
With two in three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer by age 70, the National Skin Cancer Action Week 2018 being held November 18-24, 2018 is an important reminder of the risks of exposure to UV radiation, the need for sun protection and early skin cancer detection for all Australians.
Did you know:
More than 2,000 people in Australia die from skin cancer each year
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world
Skin cancers account for about 80% of all new cancers diagnosed each year in Australia
Cancer Council estimates that Australia spends more than $1 billion per year treating skin cancer, with costs increasing substantially over the past few years.
Most skin cancers can be prevented by the use of good sun protection, yet too many Australians still want to, and have a tan.
Despite many Australians referring to a “heathy tan”, a tan is not a sign of good health or wellbeing. In fact, tanning is a sign that you have been exposed to enough UV radiation to damage your skin. This will eventually cause premature aging – including sun spots, wrinkles and sagging. Worst of all it increases your risk of skin cancer.
That’s why this National Skin Cancer Action Week and throughout summer Cancer Council is encouraging everyone to #OwnYourTone and embrace your natural skin tone.
During National Skin Cancer Action Week and throughout summer, use the five forms of sun protection and #OwnYourTone by:
slip on sun-protective clothing
slop on SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen
slap on a broad-brimmed hat
seek shade
slide on sunglasses.
A combination of these measures, along with getting to know your skin and regularly checking for any changes, are the keys to reducing your skin cancer risk.
Get your skin checked and prevent cancer
The sooner a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better your chance of avoiding surgery or, in the case of a serious melanoma or other skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death.
It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor about your level of risk and for advice on early detection.
It's important to get to know your skin and what is normal for you, so that you notice any changes. Skin cancers rarely hurt and are much more frequently seen than felt.
We have a dedicated Skin Cancer Clinic at Toukley Family Practice, call (02) 4352 8644 to book an appointment.
Find out more information here
Resources:
Cancer Council
