In the past 20 years we’ve seen improvements in the way Australians protect themselves from the sun, but despite this melanoma remains our fourth most common cancer. It’s time we took a long hard look at ourselves.

You should be familiar with your skin, the type of spots you have including moles, birthmarks, freckles or blemishes. It is important to know what is normal for you and what changes may have occurred since the last time you looked.

The Cancer Council recommends that everybody check their skin regularly. Be alert to any new or changing moles, freckles and spots. If you do notice anything new or different seek medical advice immediately.

Did you know?

• Every day, two Australians aged 50 and over die from melanoma
• In NSW, more than half the deaths from melanoma are of men over 50
• More than 95% of melanomas are treatable if caught early
• A melanoma can be life threatening in as little as six weeks
• Five or more sunburns in your lifetime can double your risk of skin cancer

Who’s at risk?

• Anyone who spent their childhood in Australia
• Anyone who spends time in the sun
• People with lots of moles
• People who have suffered sunburn in the past
• Fair-skinned peopl e whose skin burns easily, freckles and does not tan
• Blue or green-eyed, fair or red-haired people
• Anyone who has had skin cancer
• Anyone with a family history of skin cancer

How to check your skin

It's easy to do, and should only take 10 to15 minutes. Just follow these steps:

• Check the whole body from head to toe, front back and sides
• Check the head and neck, and don't forget your scalp and ears
• Check the torso, front back and sides. Use a mirror or ask your partner to look at the parts you can't see
• Check your arms and hands, including the nail beds
• Check your buttocks and legs. Don’t forget the soles of your feet, and between the toes and the nail beds.

If you think that you have a suspicious spot or would like to have your skin checked there are a number of things you can do:

• See your GP. He or she know your full history, can examine your skin and advise you regarding appropriate care
• See a specialist . If you would like a second opinion ask your GP to refer you to a specialist such as a dermatologist. Your GP may suggest you see a specialist anyway.
• Visit a skin cancer clinic. There are many available offering a variety of services and fee arrangements. Skin clinics are usually operated by GPs and some may offer bulk billing for at least some of their services. In deciding whether to go to a skin clinic, it is important you find out about the services offered and the expertise of the staff at the time of making your appointment. The Cancer Council does not operate or endorse any particular skin clinics.

For information about skin spots to watch, a guide to skin clinics or for general support call the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20 or visit www.cancercouncil.com.au

Courtesy: The Cancer Council NSW, September 2004

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