Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world and Torquay Lions Club is doing its bit to reduce the statistics.
The club has organised the sought-after Lions Skin Check and Awareness Mobile Unit to be in Torquay during the first week of July.
The unit will offer free skin checks and appointments must be made.
“The incorporated charity, the Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation, has put the unit on the road, following excellent financial support from Lions clubs and generous public and private supporters,” Torquay Lions president Neil Roche said.
“The van will provide a free skin screening service to local people, and will be operated by fully trained, certificated and professionally supervised volunteers.
“The unit will be a valuable resource for local people to access not only the skin check, but valuable and timely information about skin care and self-checking techniques.”
The van will be operating on Friday July 1 and 2 at Wurdi Baierr Stadium, Torquay.
Mr Roche said that early detection of skin lesions potentially saves lives, so this visit will be a timely support and reminder to local people of the need to take care of their skin.
Following the skin check, visitors will be issued with a referral to their GP if there are any suspect spots or lesions.
The unit is not a medical clinic, so diagnosis or treatment requirements are not discussed – it simply provides the skin check and alerts the visitor to skin lesions that require further checking and attention.
The airconditioned van has three fully equipped screening rooms and an entry foyer, as well as a disabled lift and entry at the rear.
To book a free screening, local and surrounding residents should contact the Lions Club appointment manager on 0460-968 848.
Appointments can be made only by phone. Bookings open on June 6.
