Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia, with melanoma being the deadliest form. To combat this growing health issue, initiatives like the Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness are vital. This initiative aims to promote early skin cancer detection and raise awareness about the importance of regular skin checks.

Understanding Skin Cancer in Australia

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. The harsh UV radiation from the sun contributes significantly to the incidence of skin cancer in Australia. This makes it crucial for Australians to be vigilant about their skin health. Skin cancer, including melanoma, can develop quickly and become life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

The Importance of Early Skin Cancer Detection

Early detection of skin cancer is essential for effective treatment and better outcomes. When skin cancer is found at an early stage, it is often easier to treat and has a higher chance of being cured. Regular skin checks by professionals and self-examinations play a key role in catching skin cancer early.

The Role of the Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness

The Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness group works to increase understanding and awareness of melanoma and other types of skin cancer among lawmakers and the general public. Their efforts focus on several key areas:

1. Raising Awareness: The group promotes awareness about the risks of skin cancer and the importance of regular skin checks. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are crucial for spreading this message.

2. Advocating for Research and Funding: By lobbying for increased funding for skin cancer research, the group supports advancements in prevention, detection, and treatment methods. This can lead to the development of more effective strategies to combat skin cancer.

3. Encouraging Early Detection: The group emphasizes the importance of early detection through regular skin checks. They advocate for accessible and affordable skin cancer screening services for all Australians.

How to Perform a Skin Check

Regular skin checks are vital for early skin cancer detection. Here are some steps you can follow to perform a thorough skin check:

1. Examine Your Entire Body: Use a mirror to check all areas of your body, including hard-to-see places like your back, scalp, and the soles of your feet. Look for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions.

2. Look for Warning Signs: Be aware of the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolving shape or size. If you notice any of these signs, consult a professional immediately.

3. Schedule Professional Skin Checks: Regular visits to a dermatologist or skin cancer clinic are essential. Professionals can use advanced tools and techniques to detect skin cancer at its earliest stages.

SunSkin Clinic: Your Partner in Skin Cancer Detection and Treatment

SunSkin Clinic is one of the top Australian skin cancer clinics, with locations in Box Hill and Keysborough. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for skin cancer detection and treatment. We offer a range of services to help you stay proactive about your skin health.

Services Offered at SunSkin Clinic

1. Skin Checks: Regular skin checks are crucial for early detection. Our skilled professionals use advanced dermoscopy techniques to examine your skin thoroughly and identify any suspicious lesions.

2. Biopsies and Diagnosis: If a suspicious area is found, a biopsy may be performed to determine if it is cancerous. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment planning.

3. Treatment Options: We offer a variety of treatment options tailored to the type and stage of skin cancer, including surgical excision, cryotherapy, and advanced treatments like immunotherapy for melanoma.

Conclusion

Early detection and awareness are key in the fight against skin cancer. The efforts of the Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness group are instrumental in promoting these goals. At SunSkin Clinic, we are committed to providing top-quality care and support for all your skin health needs.

Melbourne residents can book an appointment by calling our Box Hill branch at 03 8352 4200 or our Keysborough branch at 03 9329 3300. For more information and to book online, visit our appointment page. Stay vigilant, get regular skin checks, and protect yourself from the risks of skin cancer.

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July 31, 2024

Did you know that almost 2 in every 3 Australians will develop skin cancer before turning 70? Research shows that new cases of non-melanoma cancers and full body screening are also rising by 2-6% annually! That’s how rampant skin cancer has become. The number of patients increases every year and it's time to sit up and take notice.

If you are unsure about whether to take preventive measures, you should understand that taking care of the skin is as important as taking care of your overall health. Skin is the largest body organ and the growth of cancerous cells in it will impact every organ eventually. 

The good news is that skin cancer is preventable if you understand the skin cancer risk and make efforts to keep yourself protected.

So, What are you Waiting for? 

As the new year approaches, take these 3 steps to reduce skin cancer risk:

• Keep yourself covered: As simple as it sounds, the best way to keep skin cancer at bay is to keep your skin covered as far as possible. However, this doesn’t mean wearing just about anything that you can get your hands on. Choose denim materials that have a tight fit or synthetic clothes like polyester to guard against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Loosely-worn clothes and natural materials like cotton cannot offer as much protection. Try to wear broad-brimmed hats when you are out in the sun, on the beach, for instance. Use UV-blocking sunshades to protect the eyes and surrounding skin.

• Add sunscreen to your daily skincare regimen: Just as you use cleansers and moisturizers to pamper your skin, use good quality sunscreen for protection. Remember to choose sunscreens with a high SPF value as these are more effective. According to reports, sunscreens with SPF values of 15 and more can lower the chances of skin cancer (melanoma) by almost 50%! If you are going to be out in the sun for a long time, it’s best to choose a broad-spectrum, waterproof sunscreen formula with a 30 SPF or even higher. The sunscreen should ideally be applied half an hour before you step outside. The best way to be sure you found the right sunscreen is to search for brands having the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation.

• Get your skin checked: Opt for full body screening to be sure you are not at risk of developing melanoma. Skin cancers risk can be dangerous and disfiguring if they are not detected and treated on time. Early skin cancer detection improves the chances of a full recovery, because, when detected in the initial stages, they are highly treatable. According to reports, patients with early skin cancer detection of melanoma have a survival rate of almost 99% during the first 5 years. This can fall to 68% when cancer spreads to lymph nodes and organs.

Use these simple guidelines and advice to keep yourself protected from skin cancer risk and enjoy your time in the sun without worry!

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January 11, 2023