Skin Cancer
Statistics show that incidences of skin cancer doubled in
the two years to 1997. Queensland’s skin cancer rate
is already the highest in the world and it is expected that
without prevention it will get much worse.
Everyone is at risk of skin cancer, and everyone should take
basic precautions. Workers who spend most of their time during
the day outside are most at risk.
Remember:
You do not actually have to get sunburnt to damage your skin
and risk skin cancer.
Skin Cancers are mostly related to overexposure to the sun
taking place over a period of time. Most skin cancer can be
prevented by protecting the skin from the sun.
1 Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma – starts as a small lump which
flattens out as it grows. One of the two most common growths.
It can be easily treated and cured.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – is the other most common
growth, however, it is more likely to spread to other parts
of the body.
Malignant Melanoma – the most dangerous type of skin
cancer. Often starts as a dark mole. This type is responsible
for over 1000 deaths in Australia each year.
Sunspot (Keratosis) – a small scaly patch of skin occurring
on the arms, face nose and ears. These are not strictly a
form of cancer but indicate excessive exposure to solar UV
radiation.
2 Protection
All persons including children, should be encouraged to protect
themselves against the sun.
Highest risk time in the sun is between 10am and 4pm.
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Wear protective clothing outside: a shady hat, shirt, with
long sleeves and trousers.
Apply a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF
15+) before you go out into the sun.
Noses, lips, ears, bald heads and backs of hands, need extra
protection.
Reapply sunscreen regularly, particularly if you are perspiring.
Over-exposing yourself to the Sun’s rays increases
the risk of skin cancers, now and in the future.
On the farm, use a tractor with shade protection fitted.
3 Check for early signs
Checks should be made for early signs of cancer. These include:
- Any unusual skin condition that doesn’t heal within
four weeks.
- Any sore, ulcer or scaly patch on the skin.
- Any white patch on the lips that doesn’t heal.
- Any mole that seems to grow quickly.
- Any mole that changes shape or colour.
- Any mole that bleeds or repeatedly itches.
See a doctor if you notice any of these early warning signs.
Skin Cancers are mostly related to over-exposure to the
Sun over a period of time. Reduce the risk – Cover Up!
Queensland Cancer Fund Website
www.qldcancer.com.au |
