THERE are countless reasons to love living in our sundrenched country.
Many of us have fond memories of long summer days but most of us could also probably rustle up a few memories of nursing some sunburn after spending that little bit too much time in the sun.
Sunburn is not only uncomfortable but is also dangerous.
Unfortunately, as a country we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with statistics indicating that two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.
Alarmingly, about 2000 Australians die from skin cancer each year.
So what can you do to reduce your risk of skin cancer?
When you cover things, they last longer- the same can be said for you and your skin.
Most skin cancer can be prevented by following the SunSmart 5S rule.
- Slip – slip on clothing
- Slop – slop on sunscreen
- Slap – slap on a hat
- Seek – seek shade
- Slide – slide on sunglasses
By following the above rules you will
be cutting the amount of radiation that
reaches your skin and your eyes and reducing the likelihood of damage.
It is also important to remember that generally the sooner skin cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
Getting your skin checked by your GP is the best way to determine whether or not any existing spots or new spots are likely to be a problem.
Any new spots, or changes in the shape, colour or size of an existing spot should be checked as soon as possible.
Hopefully you can make some wonderful new memories to keep this summer – minus the sunburn.
