Many of us are in the dark about the facts concerning skin cancer. Australia and New Zealand’s incidence and mortality rates of skin cancer are the highest in the world – so it’s important to understand the information surrounding skin cancer. Here is some widely unknown – albeit immensely important – information about skin cancer.
1. In Australian and New Zealand, the risk of developing melanoma by the age 75 is one in 24 for males and one in 34 for females; two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they reach 70.
2. The incidence rate of skin cancer in Australia has actually risen over the past few decades; from 1982 to 2010 melanoma diagnoses rose by approximately 60%.
3. Between 95 and 99% of skin cancers are a result of sun exposure.
4. Melanoma is the third most common cancer type in Australia, and is the most prevalent cancer in those aged between 15 and 44 years-old.
5. Studies have demonstrated a link between coffee consumption and a decreased risk of skin cancer development. Those tested who drank four or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% less likelihood of developing skin cancer.
6. Due to the earth’s exhausting ozone layer, UVC (short-length radiation) is reading earth’s atmosphere. Whilst no direct relationship between UVC and skin cancer has been confirmed, it is known to cause skin irritation.
7. Tanning beds increase your risk of melanoma development by 20% per session.
8. One person dies every hour from melanoma.
9. A strong sunburn during childhood increases your chances of developing melanoma later in life.
10. SPF sunscreen protection should be used throughout the day – and even in the evening! This is because damage to skin cells continues for four hours following the sun exposure.
11. You should always be wary of any new, different or changing spots. Melanomas vary in appearance, so don’t rely on Internet searches or other images of melanomas you have previously seen – it is better to be safe and achieve early detection and then assume any spot is normal.
SunDoctors specialises in skin cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention. With 19 different locations across Queensland and New South Wales, SunDoctors ensures patients receive a rapid diagnosis, pathology and referral.
For more information about SunDoctors, to learn more about skin cancer or to book a skin cancer check, free call 13 – 7546 (13 – skin) or book online at https://sundoctors.com.au/
