Hi All,  

A recent article published on the 27th of October, 2010, by the Cancer Council has alarmingly revealed that ‘almost half of adult Australians (46%) think it ‘likely’ they will develop skin cancer, yet many still fail to regularly check their skin for potential cancers’.  

The research also found that around 40% or men and 36% of women failed to check their skin or have a doctor check for skin cancers and additionally it was also found that 23% of Australian men 15% of Australian women ‘rarely or never’ use sun protection.  

With 430,000 cases of skin cancer and 1700 deaths from skin cancer per year, the Cancer Council has expressed their concern at the findings. They remind us that “Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, with melanoma in men continuing to rise,” and “Two thirds of skin cancer deaths are males and 97% are aged over 40, so men in particular need to monitor their skin.”  

The Cancer Council, alongside Australian Cricket’s Twenty-20 captain and Test vice captain, Michael Clarke, have urged Australians to be proactive about protecting and monitoring their skin.    

According to the article, Clarke has had three skin cancers removed from his face. Clarke says “Playing cricket means I am outdoors during peak UV times, so I try to protect myself and keep an eye on my skin for any changes,” “I was lucky my cancers were so visible, but they can be anywhere on the body, so it is critical to be vigilant.”  

Please remember to avoid sunlight during the hottest part of the day (between 10am and 4pm). If out in the sun during this time wear a broad-brimmed hat, sunnies, long sleeves and long pants and cover any exposed areas with a SPF 30+ sunscreen. Check your skin regularly and if you notice anything suspicious make an appointment to see one of our doctors.

National Skin Cancer Action Week

The Cancer Council’s National Skin Cancer Action Week runs 21-27 November, 2010.  

For further information regarding this article please see the link below: http://www.cancer.org.au/Newsmedia/mediareleases/mediareleases2010/27October2010.htm

Any feedback is greatly appreciated.

 I look forward to hearing from you by email ian.katz@southernsun.com.au   

Dr Ian Katz, Director