Skin cancer is something that affects a lot of Australians. How do you know if you’re at risk? Although we should all be protecting ourselves from UV radiation, here are some factors that can influence someone’s risk of developing skin cancer according to SunSmart.com.au :
- Having a history of Skin cancer, including within your family. “5-10% of Melanomas are influenced by genetics”
- Having fair skin or a large amount of moles; visit SunSmart.com.au for a guide to see how sensitive your skin type is to UV rays.
- Working outdoors, or spending lots of time outdoors with sunscreen (please see our article: ‘Attention Outdoor Workers’)
- Having a history of bad sunburns.
- Having a compromised immune system/are on immunosuppressive medication.
- You use or have used sunlamps or solariums and are tanned. “Research shows that using solariums before the age of 35 increases the risk of melanoma by 59%.”
If you suspect you may be at risk, or have any concerning moles or spots, do not hesitate to call our clinic where our doctors will take care of you and make sure you feel at ease. In the meantime, remember to slip slop slap seek and slide, and for any further information visit the SunSmart website at https://www.sunsmart.com.au/skin-cancer/risk-factors-for-skin-cancer
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