health checklist this summer

The new year is here, and many of us have switched off from work or school to spend time with family and friends.

Cancer Council Victoria has suggested people can have peace of mind that their health is taken care of by doing these simple steps to make sure their 2025 has a healthy start.

Data released by the Victorian Cancer Registry at Cancer Council Victoria shows that in 2022, 35,656 Victorians were diagnosed with cancer – an average of 98 people diagnosed every day, with a significant number of these cancers being preventable.

As 2025 begins, make sure you:

* Complete your cancer screening – if you’re due for bowel, breast or cervical cancer screening, tick these off your list and spend your summer relaxing. In most cases, you need to screen every two years for bowel and breast cancer, and every five years for cervical cancer

* Get that lingering health symptom checked – some people may put off seeing a GP if they notice an unusual change, including to their skin, as they wait for other reasons to see a GP. If you notice anything unusual, speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Remember, they want to see you

* Chat to Quitline – experience the freedom of quitting smoking or vaping. Join some friends and pledge to free yourselves from nicotine addiction. Head to quit.org.au, phone Quitline on 13 7848 or contact Quitline through Facebook Messager via @quitvic

* Refresh your meal plan – now’s the time to switch up your cooking routine and aim for yummy, healthy, summer recipes. To help you, LiveLighter has online recipes to help you get cooking.

* Add all five forms of sun protection to your daily routine including wearing protective clothing, a wide brim hat, sunglasses, as well as using SPF50+ sunscreen and seeking shade.

Now is also the time to check that your sunscreen is in date, and put your hat and sunglasses near the door so you are protected each time you head outdoors.

Cancer Council Victoria head of screening, early detection and immunisation Kate Broun said doing cancer screening and taking preventative measures could reduce your risk of many cancers, including bowel, cervical and lung.

“We know life gets busy with activities. That means people often put off health checks or screening to the new year.

“We want to reinforce the importance of cancer screening and taking action if you notice anything unusual.

“This way you can enjoy summer knowing you’re in the best possible health.”

If you or a loved one are experiencing cancer, our cancer nurses are available to answer your questions and offer emotional or practical support. Phone 13 11 20 for free, confidential support.

For more information and resources on cancer prevention, head to cancervic.org.au