LIVING on the Fraser Coast region offers some amazing lifestyle benefits— the warm summers, the water, the fishing and the great outdoors. However, with sunshine comes the increased risk of skin damage, including the potential for skin cancer. This is why residents of Fraser Coast prioritise regular skin checks as part of their healthcare routine.
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In Queensland, including the Fraser Coast area, experiences some of the most intense UV radiation levels. Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Unfortunately, many of you may have experienced sun damage, prior to the knowledge of skin cancer. As a GP, I hear about the days when people would use olive oil or coconut oil followed by sitting on their roofs to get a tan.
Prevention of skin cancer is better than the cure and many of us would remember Sid the Seagull from the 1980s and 1990s, to ensure with “Slip, Slop and Slap”. We can slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat. Further sliding on some sunglasses and remember to seek shade.
Skin cancer is treatable when detected early, but it can be deadly if left unchecked. There are many types of skin cancer, ranging from squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and melanomas. Melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer, can spread to other parts of the body if not caught in time.
Regular skin checks by your general practitioner who is trained in skin cancer detection can identify suspicious moles, spots, or lesions that may otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection allows for less invasive treatments and dramatically improves survival rates and complications.
Even if you use sunscreen and take sun safety precautions, it's essential to have your skin checked regularly, as not all skin cancers are related to sunburn or visible damage. Some can develop in areas not commonly exposed to the sun, such as the soles of your feet or under your nails.
The outdoors of the Fraser Coast should be enjoyed, but it’s vital to balance these activities with sun safe practices. Regular skin checks are a simple, quick, and effective way to protect your health.
Dr Nick Yim - GP Torquay Doctors
