Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
To minimise your risk of developing skin cancer simply adopt the following 5 sun protection measures in Canberra from the beginning of August through to the end of May. This is the time of the year when UV levels reach 3 and above during certain periods or most of the day. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) will also issue a daily SunSmart UV Alert as a reminder to take care when outdoors.
In June and July sun protection is generally not necessary in Canberra due to low UV levels (under 3). Sun protection in June and July may still be required in alpine regions or around highly reflective surfaces or for people who have a history of skin cancer or work outdoors. For more information read Cancer Council Australia’s Position Statement Risks and Benefits of Sun Exposure.
Remember, extra care should always be taken between 10am to 2pm (11am to 3pm daylight saving) as this is the time of the day when UV Index levels reach their peak.
For more information on the above sun protection measures and more view our on-line Information Sheets.
Finding skin cancer early
More than 90% of skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early. Individuals who are concerned about skin cancer risk or skin changes should seek advice from a medical practitioner and discuss their skin cancer risk and need for medical checks or self-examination.
Check your skin regularly and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- a skin spot that is different from other spots around it
- a mole or freckle that has changed in size, shape, or colour
- a suspicious spot that is new or has changed over weeks or months in colour, size or shape, or
- an inflamed sore that has not healed in 3 weeks.
Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists do not endorse the practice of skin checks in public places as a screening method, but do recognize the value in promotional or educational activities that raises awareness of early detection and skin cancer prevention.
Read Cancer Council Australia’s Position Statement – Screening and early detection of skin cancer. For more information download an information sheet or one of our online brochures.
Save Your Own Skin- How to find skin cancer early.
The general public, particularly those aged 40 and over, are encouraged to check all areas of their skin, including skin not normally exposed to the sun. Look for changes in shape, colour or size of a pigmented lesion or a new lesion regularly (say every 3 months- or the change of each season). Individuals should seek assistance from others to check difficult to see areas such as the back.
Individuals who are concerned about their skin cancer risk OR have noticed a spot on the skin that has changed in size, shape or colour, or that itches or bleeds, or that wasn't there before, should see a doctor immediately. Your general practitioner (GP) should be your first point of call. In some cases your GP may refer you to a specialist or even suggest you go to a skin clinic. For more information on getting your skin checked including questions and issues to keep in mind download the brochures below.
Online brochures
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