Skin Cancer Detection
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Australia, and the majority of cases are linked to sun exposure. In fact, studies show that 95% of melanomas are caused by sunburn. Fortunately, skin cancer is largely preventable by adopting safe sun practices. At Shire Doctors and Dentists, we are committed to helping you reduce your risk of skin cancer through prevention and education.
Tips on How to Prevent Skin Cancer
The Cancer Council recommends the following tips to help prevent sunburn and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Wear Sun-Protective Clothing: Choose clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Opt for long sleeves, pants, and a broad-brimmed hat. Clothing made from tightly woven fabrics can provide additional protection. Specialised sun-protective clothing, which offers a higher UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), is also available.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a water-resistant, broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors. Be sure to cover all exposed areas, including the backs of hands, feet, ears, and neck. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Remember to use enough sunscreen — around a tablespoon for your face and a shot glass full for your body.
- Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat (at least 7.5 cm) protects your face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays. Sunglasses with UV protection are essential to shield your eyes and the sensitive skin around them. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Seek Shade: Whenever possible, rest in the shade, particularly during the hottest parts of the day (from 10am to 4pm). Trees, umbrellas, or shaded structures can provide relief from direct sunlight. Even a small amount of sun exposure during these peak hours can be damaging.
- Avoid Tanning: It’s essential to understand that there is no such thing as a “healthy tan.” A tan is your skin’s response to UV radiation, and it is a sign of skin injury. The UV damage caused by tanning increases your risk of developing skin cancer over time.
For those who work or play outside regularly, it’s crucial to follow more stringent protective measures to avoid skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer. In addition to the guidelines above, consider using additional protective tools like UV-protective clothing and accessories, and always be mindful of your sun exposure.
Skin Cancer Prevention Guidelines
To help you stay sun-safe and significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, follow these guidelines:
- Seek Shade: The UV rays are most intense between 10am and 4pm, so try to stay in the shade during these hours. If you’re outside, seek shelter under trees, umbrellas, or any available shade to minimise direct sun exposure.
- Never Let Your Skin Burn: Sunburn significantly raises your risk of skin cancer. Always take precautions to avoid burning, even on cloudy days when UV-rays can still cause harm.
- Avoid Sun-Tanning: A tan is a result of skin damage. Whether from direct sunlight or tanning beds, tanning can lead to permanent skin damage and increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
- Don’t Use Solariums: Solariums expose your skin to UV light, which is harmful and can increase the risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. The use of solariums has been linked to a higher incidence of skin cancer and should be avoided.
- Cover Up with Clothing: In addition to sunscreen, protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat should be worn when exposed to sunlight. The more coverage you have, the better the protection.
- Use Sunscreen with SPF 30 or Higher: Sunscreen should be applied daily, even on cloudy days or during colder weather, especially to areas like your face, neck, ears, and hands. Choose an SPF of 30 or higher, and ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Reapply Sunscreen: Sunscreen wears off over time, so reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to focus on areas like your nose, ears, and lips, which are more prone to sun damage.
- Protect Babies from the Sun: Babies have more sensitive skin than adults, so it’s crucial to keep them shaded and covered with protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. When necessary, use a low-irritant sunscreen that is safe for babies, particularly on the face. Avoid exposing babies to direct sunlight, especially during peak hours.
- Examine Your Skin Regularly: Check your skin for new or changing moles, freckles, or spots. Regular self-examinations are essential in spotting potential warning signs of skin cancer. Make sure to look closely at areas that may be less visible, such as your back, scalp, and the soles of your feet.
- See Your Doctor Regularly: Schedule a professional skin examination with your doctor at least once a year. Those with a history of sunburn, a family history of skin cancer, or a high number of moles may need more frequent check-ups. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
- Seek Medical Advice if You Notice Changes: If you notice any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:
- A mole, spot, or freckle that changes in size, shape, or colour.
- A mole that becomes itchy, bleeds, or forms a scab.
- A new mole or skin growth that is irregular or looks suspicious.
Additional Skin Cancer Protection Tips
- Wear UV-Protective Clothing: Some fabrics provide additional protection from harmful UV rays. Look for clothing made from tightly woven, thick fabrics or clothing designed with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating.
- Check Your Scalp and Nails: Don’t forget to check your scalp, as hair can sometimes hide moles or skin changes. Similarly, keep an eye on your nails for any unusual changes in colour or texture, which can sometimes indicate skin cancer.
- Stay Hydrated: Sun exposure can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in hot weather. This helps your body cope with the effects of sun exposure.
By incorporating these preventive practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer while protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Stay safe and sun-smart — your health is worth it!