Check your skin this summer

NEW research has found many Australians are neglecting skin cancer checks and failing to use sun protection, even on cloudy days when UV radiation can still be dangerously high.

A TAL SpotChecker survey revealed that while 83 per cent of Australians believe self-checking for skin cancer is important, nearly one-third have never checked their skin or cannot recall the last time they did.

Dr Priya Chagan, TAL’s general manager of health services, said misunderstandings about UV exposure are leaving people at risk.

“Don’t let what’s out of sight be out of mind,” Dr Chagan said.

“The vast majority of skin cancers are directly related to skin damage caused by exposure to UV radiation, which can penetrate through clouds and rain.

“Even on overcast days, UV levels can be extreme. By protecting your skin, you can reduce your risk.”

More than 70 per cent of Australians base their sun protection decisions on the weather rather than UV risks, according to the findings. Although 89 per cent are aware of the damage UV rays can cause, 43 per cent rarely or never check the UV index, and 62 per cent don’t know how.

Dr Chagan said regular self-checks and consistent sun protection are vital for reducing the risk of skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia – about 2 in 3 Australians will develop one,” Dr Chagan said.

“But they’re also the most preventable. It is crucial to always protect our skin from UV.

“There is an alarming lack of self-checking for skin cancer despite most people telling us it’s an important part of early detection. 80 per cent are not aware of the SCAN method, a simple way to monitor for skin changes.

“Skin cancer is often referred to as ‘Australia’s cancer’, yet many don’t understand the real risk it poses.

“Protecting your skin from UV radiation every day and performing regular self-checks to get familiar with how your skin looks can save your life.”