Sun protection: Let’s talk about skin cancer awareness

Written by on in Lifestyle

After many years working at a skin and cosmetic clinic, educating people on the importance of sun protection is something I believe strongly in. So, let’s talk about what skin cancers are, how to identify one and how to prevent them.

A couple of scary facts I want to share with you first; in 2013, 2,200 Australians died from skin cancers, an almost preventable disease. Did you also know that sunburn causes 95% of melanomas!


How to identify a skin cancer
Skin cancers could present as an itchy patch of skin which could be crusty, or just a sore that doesn’t heal. It could be a lump that looks a bit like a pimple. By ignoring the signs assuming it is nothing or will just ‘go away’, it is likely to grow. Early detection is key to minimising or preventing surgery and improving your outcomes. You should regularly check your own skin for any new spots, freckles or moles that change in colour especially dark brown/black, blue black or red. If you think you have noticed a difference in your skin, always consult your doctor. The good news is that 95% of skin cancers can be successfully treated if detected early.

Let’s talk about prevention
Surely, we all know by now that solariums and tanning our bods are harmful to our skin. Solariums were thankfully banned from all states in Australia back in 2016. If the risk of skin cancers is not enough to stop you tanning your skin at the beach or in your backyard, then what about the premature ageing that is taking place from all your sun damage. This ‘tanning’ can contribute to fine lines, wrinkles and uneven pigmentation.

The best way to protect your skin is by following Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide. Even on overcast days, the UV level can still be high so whilst you may not visibly see yourself burning and turning red, the sun can still be causing damage to your skin cells which can cause skin cancers.

My 2 year old daughter already knows that she needs her hat and sunscreen on before she goes outside to play. It really is never too early to teach our kids and it is never too late to start protecting yourself.

Prevention, prevention, prevention!! It beats undergoing any treatment!

What are some great sunscreens I hear you say?

We like the following range:-

 

 

 

Want to know more?

Check out these resources from the Cancer Council:

What is skin cancer?

Preventing skin cancer

All about melanomas

Melanoma and skin cancer fact sheet

Check for signs of skin cancer and what they look like

Cancer Council

Ursula is challenge driven, and thrives in busy environments.  With over 27 years’ experience as an EA/PA, Ursula has worked with and supported some of Australia's most recognised and rewarded individuals.   Ursula has provided crucial support to politicians, boards and government department heads during some intense periods during her career, earning a reputation for resilience and as an EA that can “handle the heat”. She has an exceptional capacity for organisation, multi-tasking, and prioritising, she is passionate about providing the highest levels of customer service and being a wingwoman to her executive.   Ursula understands just how vital an effective EA can be for their manager and their organisation.  She is passionate about encouraging other EAs to understand their organisation, nurture relationships in and outside the business, learn and develop, and cultivate a “can do” attitude.   Born in Canberra, Ursula is one of six children to migrant parents, she initially struggled to keep up having to attend English speaking classes and learned much of what she knows today from trial and error. Ursula has a Diploma of Business Management, was one of five finalists in the 2019 Canberra Women in Business – Business Woman of the Year category. She has lived on the Sunshine Coast and prefers Canberra (!) is married with one daughter and a gorgeous Kelpie named Tess.

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