Page 15 - Just Better Care Possible Magazine - Issue 6

Spot the difference
The early detection of skin cancer is especially important for older Australians - getting to know your skin and being aware of what to look out for is vital.
“Skin cancer can appear as a new spot, or a spot that has changed in size, colour or shape,” Heather explained.
“We say look out for the ‘ugly duckling’ – that mark or spot on your skin that just looks unusual, different or not quite right. If you notice any of these signs, see your doctor as soon as possible. Most skin cancer is easily treatable at the early stages.Butleftuntreated,itcanbefatal.”
Heather said the best way to reduce your risk is to get to know your own skin.
“Most skin cancers are actually detected by the patient or their partner. And, because melanoma can be a fast-growing disease, Cancer Council doesn’t recommend waiting for an annual
or bi-annual skin check.
“Instead, Australians need to get to
know their own skin and what it normally looks like so you can be aware of any changes. Check your whole skin, as skin cancer can appear anywhere – even on skin that hasn’t typically been exposed
to the sun, like your underarms or the soles of your feet.
“For people with limited mobility, you could ask a partner or carer, or speak to your doctor to find a surveillance plan that best suits you. You should also talk to your doctor about developing a surveillance plan if you fall into a ‘high risk’ category for skin cancer.”
Did you know?
It all adds up
In the summer months, our skin can burn
in as quickly as 11 minutes. It’s damage that’s permanent, it can’t be undone. But there
is good news: Heather says sun protection
at any age will stop more damage from adding up.
Heather’s top tips to be SunSmart
Find the sun protection times in the newspaper or on the free SunSmart mobile and tablet app. During sun protection times each day:
1. Sliponclothingthatcoversasmuch skin as possible
2. Slop on SPF30 (or higher) broad- spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply every two hours
3. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat 4. Seek shade where you can
5. Slide on sunglasses.
The early detection of skin cancer is especially important for older Australians - getting to know your skin and being aware of what to look out for is vital.
When it comes to sun protection, it’s the UV you need to be mindful of, not the temperature outside.
UV, or ultraviolet radiation, is a type of energy produced by the sun. You can’t see or feel UV and won’t notice the damage until it’s too late.
To protect yourself, you need to use sun protection when the UV is forecast to be three or higher.
To find out the UV, check your local weather forecast, or visit the Bureau of Meteorology website, www.bom.gov.au/
JUST BETTER CARE — 15