One of the most common places people are exposed to harmful UV rays is in the workplace. There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and can be deadly if not caught early. Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are less serious but can still be very dangerous if left untreated.
How to prevent skin cancer
- Make sure to wear sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy outside. Cancer Council Australia recommends a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or 50+ whenever the UV Index is 3 or above. Additionally, it is important to reapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you are outside.
- Take breaks often to get out of the sun and into the shade.
- See your doctor regularly for skin checks so that any skin cancer can be caught early and treated before it becomes more serious.
Skin cancer symptoms
- Change in the size, shape, colour, or feel of a mole
- New growth on the skin
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- Itching or bleeding on the skin
What to do if you think you have skin cancer
If you think you may have skin cancer, it is important to see a doctor right away. Skin cancer can be treated effectively if it is caught early. If you notice any changes in your skin, such as new growths or changes in existing moles, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor. They will be able to determine if you have skin cancer and, if so, what the best treatment option is for you.
Skin cancer is a very dangerous disease that can be deadly if it is not caught early. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by following these steps. Do you have any sun safety tips to share?
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