Poor sun protection despite cancer risks

Despite that fact that at least two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 70, a new study has found half of the population still aren’t using sun protection every day during summer.
Victorians know the dangers of sunburn and tanning and while most know the SunSmart message by heart, too many are still failing to actually put this knowledge into practice.
“Now that the weather is warming up, it’s time to be vigilant in the sun,” leading Geelong plastic surgeon Mr Ian Holten said.
“Over 40,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually but over 95 per cent of skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early,” he said.
Skin cancer and mole checks, talking to an expert about the level of skin cancer risk and determining how much sun exposure is really needed to provide enough vitamin D is a good idea.
Skin cancer detection can be difficult, with skin cancers rarely felt and sometimes occurring on parts of the body that are not usually exposed to the sun, such as between the toes.
Not all skin cancers start out as moles so it is important for people to have a trained eye look over their skin on an annual basis.
“A skin check is easy and simple and takes 20 minutes. It’s just one of those things you need to do.”
Mr Holten has trained Australian Skin Face Body’s team of doctors to carry out comprehensive skin checks.
Located at 50 Western Beach Road, Geelong, the Plastic Surgery, Skin and Laser Clinic has ample parking at the rear.
No referral is necessary to see a GP trained in skin cancer checks, simply make an appointment by phoning 5221 8444.