Protect Your Skin

This Skin Cancer Action Week, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) reminds people in the Murrumbidgee region of the importance of early skin cancer detection and using sun protection every day of the year.

Dr Gracy Gouda from Trinity Medical Centre said skin cancer was a primarily preventable cancer, but anyone could develop skin cancer and it was more common as people age.

“While incidence of melanoma in the Murrumbidgee is less than the national average, two in three Australians will be diagnosed every year with skin cancer by the age of 70,” Dr Gouda said.

“People need to check their skin regularly by monitoring for new or changing skin lesions and if concerned about any, to seek medical advice.

“An annual review by their local GP or dermatologist will assist in the early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

“Current clinical guidelines do not recommend systematic skin cancer screening.

“However, I do highly recommend people to seek regular skin checks from their GP.”

Frequent skin checks ensure that melanoma or any form of skin cancer can be quickly diagnosed and treated.

It is important to wear sun protection when outdoors throughout the year.

Book a skin check regularly with your GP and more urgently if you notice any changes to your skin.

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• Health & Wellbeing