Almost all skin cancer in Australia is attributed to overexposure to UV radiation. Research indicates that more than two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some point in their lives. This translates to approximately 2,000 Australian deaths from skin cancer each year. Medicare data from 2018 shows over a million treatments for squamous and basal cell carcinoma, which averages out to more than 100 treatments every hour. 

Additionally, it is estimated that occupational exposures contribute to around 200 cases of melanoma and 34,000 cases of other skin cancer types annually in Australia. If these statistics alarm you, it’s essential to understand that taking proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk and help protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. But before doing so, let’s unpack what are the main causes of skin cancer. 

Skin Cancer Rates in Australia

Australia is known to have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. While it is true that anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is heightened the older you get. Over 95% of skin cancer is caused due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation. When unprotected skin is exposed to harmful UV rays, cells within the skin undergo genetic damage. This damage disrupts normal cell function and can lead to the development of cancerous cells. 

What’s more, UV radiation is invisible and undetectable to the senses, and it isn’t affected by temperature or cloud cover. It can cause sunburn, premature aging, and damage to skin cells, which increases the risk of skin cancer. 

This means that sun damage isn’t always visible immediately and can occur long before you experience sunburn or a tan. Furthermore, this damage accumulates over time and cannot be undone.

Here are a few key factors that contribute to skin cancer: 

Skin Type

Surprisingly, most Australians have the wrong type of skin for their environment. Those with fair skin and light hair are particularly vulnerable. This mismatch between skin type and environmental conditions increases the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

Genetics 

A family history of skin cancer can increase your risk of developing the condition. The fact that Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world means that you may be at even higher risk. 

Occupational Conditions 

Some jobs such as those in mining and construction industries involve working outdoors for long periods or with UV-emitting equipment heightening the risk of exposure to harmful UV rays. 

Tanning 

We all know that Aussies love to tan, but frequent tanning significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Whether through sun exposure or artificial tanning beds, the intense UV radiation damages skin cells.

Immune System 

Individuals with a weakened immune system are at increased risk of developing skin cancer. This is because a weakened immune system will struggle to repair damaged skin cells, heightening the likelihood of skin cancer. 

Hence, it is crucial to take preventive measures such as using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Likewise, consider conducting regular skin checks, especially if your job and/or place of work is prone to harmful UV ray exposure. 

Skin Checks in the Workplace 

If you are worried about workplace exposure, it could be helpful to consider implementing regular skin checks in the workplace. As one of Australia and New Zealand’s leading corporate health and wellness providers, BizHealth is committed to supporting everyday Aussie and Kiwi businesses in creating a safe and healthy work environment.  If you are considering conducting skin checks in the workplace for early detection and mitigation of skin cancer risks, consider conducting a skin cancer check for corporates. All it takes is 10 minutes and our team of physicians and general practitioners will conduct a thorough check of each staff member. 

Head to our blog for a list of quick facts you need to know about workplace skin checks. 

Enhance Workplace Wellbeing with Biz Health 

At Biz Health, we make it our mission to simplify workplace skin checks for you. Our checks are quick and we provide a range of follow-up resources to ensure continuous care for all your employees. 

Regular skin checks are essential for maintaining workplace health and safety. By prioritizing these checks, you can enhance employee well-being and ensure productivity. With Biz Health, integrating these checks into your routine is straightforward, making it easier for both you and your employees to stay in the pink. 

Contact us today!