Skin Checks
As we spend more time in the sun during the warmer months, it is important to be aware of your risks for developing skin cancer and how to prevent it.
Of no surprise, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Us Australians are blessed with beautiful weather and a beautiful country to enjoy it. However, too much exposure to UV radiation in sunlight is what causes the majority of skin cancers.
More than 2,000 people in Australia die from skin cancer each year, and 2 in 3 Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.
Getting to know your skin to notice any changes as well as booking in for regular check-ups with your practitioner are the keys to reducing your skin cancer risk.
How to check your skin
Make sure you are in a room with good light, completely undress and place yourself in front of a full length mirror. Make sure you check your entire body, you can use a hand-help mirror for those tough to see spots.
- Face and scalp
- Neck and shoulders
- Front and back of your arms, including armpits
- Front and back of hands, between your fingers and under the fingernails
- Legs
- Between toes and on soles of feet
What to look for
- New moles
- Moles that increase in size
- Irregular outline of a mole
- A spot that changes colour
- Moles that itch or tingle
- Moles that bleed
When to see a practitioner
If you are even slightly worried about a spot on your skin, book in to see a practitioner. You should have a professional skin check once a year. Found early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
You can book in with one of our practitioners today online at *insert website*.
Reused blog post from last year
Title: Slip, Slop, Slap
Lead: Are you summer ready?
Body: More than 2,000 people in Australia die from skin cancer each year, and 2 in 3 Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. 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. Make sure you follow the five forms, these are to:
· 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, getting to know your skin to notice any changes as well as book in for regular check-ups with your practitioner are the keys to reducing your skin cancer risk.
To book an appointment visit
https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/st-james-WA-6102/next-practice-victoria-park/doctors.
