Hi All,
National Skin Cancer Action Week is held every year at the beginning of summer and endeavors to raise awareness of skin cancer in Australia. This year, National Skin Cancer Action Week will be held from November 21-27 and is hosted by the Cancer Council in conjunction with the Australasian College of Dermatologists.
TAKE ACTION THIS SUMMER
With National Skin Cancer Action Week upon us, the team at Southern Sun is urging all Australians to take action this summer.
With the major cause of skin cancer being too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, try to avoid prolonged periods of time in the sun between 10am and 4pm as this is when UV Rays are at their most harmful.
When out in the sun wear protective clothing such as long sleeve shirts and long pants made from tight weave materials and wear a broad-brimmed hat and close-fitting, wrap-around style sunglasses.
Apply 30+ sunscreen liberally to exposed areas. Sunscreen should be applied at least 20 minutes before going out into the sun and should be re-applied every 2-4 hours. Use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating.
Do not use solariums.
Take action by checking your own skin at least every three months. Look for any crusty sores that won’t heal, small red, pale or pearly lumps, any new spots, freckles or moles that change in colour, size, shape or thickness over a period of weeks to months. Particularly look for any spots that are dark brown to black, red or blue-black in colour.
Make sure you check, your face, neck and ears, scalp, front and back of torso, buttocks, arms, legs, hands, palms, feet, soles, and between fingers and toes and finger and toe nails it may help to use a hand held mirror you may also like to ask your partner or a person you trust to help you look.
If you notice anything unusual or suspicious see a doctor. Have a yearly skin check with a Southern Sun doctor for a full skin cancer examination.
Any feedback is greatly appreciated.
I look forward to hearing from you by email ian.katz@southernsun.com.au
Dr Ian Katz, Director
SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
Southern Sun is pleased to announce that our Hornsby and North Ryde clinics will now be open on Saturdays.
General practice appointments available in Hornsby.
Please phone to make an appointment.
HORNSBY: 94825400
NORTH RYDE: 98788555