Regular skin checks essential to avoid potentially deadly skin cancers

November 15, 2009

Around 43,000 Western Australians, about the capacity of Subiaco Oval, are likely to have been diagnosed with a non-melanoma skin cancer in the past year.

The statistics, released by the Cancer Council Western Australia at the start of National Skin Cancer Action Week, provide a stark reminder of the skin cancer risk faced by the community.

During National Skin Cancer Action Week, the Cancer Council is urging everyone to examine their skin regularly to spot potential skin cancers early.

Cancer Council’s Director of Education and Research Terry Slevin said a combination of good sun protection and regular skin checks could ultimately be a life saver.

“Early detection of skin cancer through careful examination of sun spots on your skin is critically important,” said Mr Slevin, “and the onset of summer is an ideal time to do that check, either at home or with a GP.”

“Non-melanoma skin cancers are by far the most common form of cancer diagnosed in Australia which means some people can be blasé about them. 

“The facts are they can also be deadly with around 50 deaths a year linked to these common skin cancers, on top of the more than 130 melanoma deaths.”

“The sad reality is that many people in WA, particularly young people, continue to tan and get sunburnt, ignoring their risks of developing a potentially fatal skin cancer.”

As well as the human toll, skin cancer costs around $300 million a year to treat.

“Being SunSmart means we can enjoy outdoor activities over summer and at the same time we reduce the risk of developing a potentially fatal skin cancer” Mr Slevin said.

National Skin Cancer Action Week runs from November 15-21 and involves a number of educational and promotional activities to raise awareness about skin cancer and the need for sun protection and early detection.

Skin cancer is one of the easiest cancers to prevent, by following the five simple SunSmart measures: Slip on sun protective clothing, Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade and Slide on wrap-around sunglasses.