7 Facts You Didn't Know About Skin Cancer | Information Gateway

Image via Wikipedia

Skin cancer is one of the most widespread cancers in Australia and yet it is also the most preventable. Everyone knows that the risk of skin cancer in Australia is very high, due to our harsh sun and UV rays. But what about the things you didn?t know about skin cancer?

1. ??????? Skin cancers account for 80% of new cancers diagnosed each year

This means that over 430,000 people each year are treated for skin cancer and at least one in two Aussies will develop skin cancer at some time in their lives.

The good news is that skin cancer can be easily prevented simply by covering up, with sunscreen, hats and sunglasses, and limiting your exposure to the sun. Anyone can get skin cancer, from teenagers to the elderly, so protecting yourself is a must! If you?re outdoors, sit under a tree or an outdoor awning. If you?re swimming, make sure you regularly apply sunscreen and wear a t-shirt when you?re not in the water.

2. ??????? Skin cancers come in two forms

Melanoma is less common but much more fatal and accounts for most skin cancer deaths each year. The earlier skin cancer is identified, the better your survival rate. Skin cancers can be removed by radiation therapy, by freezing and burning the cancer away, or sometimes by surgery or chemotherapy. Malignant melanoma is the most harmful of skin cancers and can result in death.

3. ??????? Skin cancer is not always visible

Looking for dark or strange-shaped moles is a good way of checking for skin cancer. You should also look out for non-healing sores, lumps, freckles or spots that change in colour, shape or thickness.? However, some spots aren?t always easily detectable or dark coloured and can even be white or skin-coloured. The best way to combat this is to get regular skin cancer check-ups.

4.???????? Unprotected children below the age of 15 are more likely to develop skin cancer

Children often have very fair and sensitive skin and protecting them from the sun is essential. Kids need to cover up, whether they?re playing outside or swimming at the beach. If you?re building a pool in your home, consider covering it with a shade and installing a swimming pool heater to compensate for the lack of direct sun. Children who are exposed to the sun without protection below the age of 15 are more likely to develop skin cancer later in their lives.

5. ??????? Solariums cause cancer

As much as some people like to deny it, solariums are very dangerous for our skin and can greatly increase the risk of melanoma. They emit forms of radiation that cause cancers to develop. While solarium owners and users can abide by precautions and safety standards, associations like the Cancer Council and the Australian Government of Health and Ageing strongly advise against the use of solariums and tanning salons.

6. ??????? Skin Cancer can lead to other cancers

This happens when the cancer cells ?metastasize? and can spread and invade other cells and organs or enter your bloodstream or lymphatic system, causing further tumours and cancers. Malignant melanoma is generally known as the most aggressive type of cancer and can frequently lead to other cancers. This is why skin cancer can be so dangerous.

7. ??????? Some sun is still good for you

While it?s important to be wary of the sun, our skin depends on the sun to produce Vitamin D which keeps our bones and muscles strong and awards us with general good health. Being in the sun is all about a healthy balance. During the summer, a few minutes in the sun can give your skin enough Vitamin D, but in winter this can take a couple of hours. So remember, while you need to protect your skin and cover up, a little bit of sun is good for you.

Source: http://www.informationgateway.org/7-facts-didnt-skin-cancer/

bjork summerfest summerfest national signing day 2012 landon collins dorial green beckham mike kelly