Skin Cancer: Understanding the risks and how to prevent exposure

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Australia.

Skin cancers account for 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers in Australia.

Australia’s skin cancer rates are among the highest globally, with twice the incidence compared to the US, the UK, and Canada. This is primarily attributed to the country’s harsh climate, where 95 to 99% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. This underscores the need for heightened awareness and prevention.

It’s a common misconception that skin cancer is easily treatable. However, the reality is stark. In 2016, nearly 2,000 Australians lost their lives to this disease, underscoring the critical need for prevention and protection.

So, what are the signs to look out for, and how do you protect yourself?

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer in Australia. They are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma occurs in the lower part of the top outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Occurs in the upper part of the top outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and usually develops in the skin cells. It usually occurs in parts of the body that have been overexposed to the sun.

Melanoma is the third most common type of cancer in Australians.

Symptoms of skin cancer

Below are some of the most common symptoms of skin cancer to watch out for

Crusty, non-healing sores
Small lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour
New spots, moles or freckles changing in colour, thickness or shape.

Risk factors

On an average Australian summer weekend, 1 in 8 Australian adults gets sunburnt. Getting sunburnt increases your risk of developing skin cancer.

Contrary to popular belief, tanning is not a sign of good health or well-being. In fact, tanning increases your risk of cancer.

The risk of skin cancer is increased for those with an increased number of unusual moles and those who have previously had skin cancer.

In addition, those whose skin tends to burn rather than tan and those with freckles or lighter hair and eye colour are at greater risk.

Treatments

Surgery is the most common type of treatment for skin cancer. In more advanced cases, tissue surrounding the cancer may also be removed. For non-melanoma cancers occurring on the top layer of the skin, chemotherapy can be applied to the skin as an ointment or cream. Skin cancers near the eyes or on the forehead may be treated with radiation. Some skin cancers may also be scraped or burnt off.

How to prevent skin cancer

To reduce your risk of skin cancer, it’s essential to reduce your exposure to the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day. There are several different ways to protect yourself. They include:

· Seeking Shade: Shade is one of the best ways to protect yourself from skin cancer. Shade Sails can provide more protection than natural shade such as trees. For best protection, a high-quality custom-made shade sail can provide up to 99% protection from the sun’s UV rays.
· Wearing a hat: Make sure your hat protects your face, neck and ears
· Wearing sun-protective clothing: Clothing should cover as much skin as possible
· Slopping on sunscreen: For best protection, choose a product rated SPF50 or SPF50+
· Protecting your eyes: Eye protection is always important when outdoors during daylight hours. When choosing sunglasses, products rated category 2, 3 or 4 will provide the best level of protection.

The effects of skin cancer can be serious, so it’s not worth taking the risk. You should take every measure possible to prevent exposure.