Australia faces a significant health challenge with one of the highest rates of skin cancer globally. There are three primary types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. 

• BCC and SCC are collectively known as non-melanoma skin cancers, accounting for approximately 99% of skin cancer cases in Australia. 
• While melanoma is less common, representing about 1% of skin cancers, it is the most dangerous type due its tendency to spread to other parts. 
• Australia records over a million treatments for non-melanoma skin cancers annually, translating to more than 100 treatments every hour. 
• It is estimated that around 2000 Australians die from skin cancer each year, with over 700 deaths attributed to non-melanoma skin cancers in 2021. 

Who’s Most Vulnerable to Skin Cancer? 

While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain individuals tend to be more susceptible than others. Some prominent risk factors include – 

• Fair Skin, Hair, and Eyes – Individuals with lighter pigmentation have less melanin. This makes them more susceptible to all types of skin cancer. 
• Family & Personal History of Skin Cancer – A family history of melanoma, especially among first-degree relatives, significantly elevates an individual’s risk. Similarly, having had melanoma previously raises the risk of recurrence – up to nine times higher than those without a prior diagnosis. 
• Age – The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age. The heightened risk is attributed to the cumulative effect of UV exposure over a lifetime. 
• Moles – The number and type of moles on your skin can affect your risk of skin cancer. Having more than 100 moles can increase your risk of melanoma by up to seven times. Also, having five or more atypical moles—those that are irregular in shape, size, or color—can raise your risk of melanoma six times.
• Sunburn History – Any sunburn, no matter how severe or when it happened, permanently damages skin cells and raises the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, later in life.
• Geographic Location – Australia is closer to the equator and in the southern hemisphere, so it gets more UV radiation than many other places. During summer, the Earth’s orbit brings Australia closer to the sun, which increases UV exposure even more.
• Outdoor Lifestyle – Although not as risky for melanoma as occasional intense sun exposure, spending a lot of time outdoors or working in the sun can raise the risk of skin cancers like BCC and SCC. 

Remember, having these risk factors doesn’t guarantee you’ll get skin cancer. Many people with these factors never develop it, and some with few risk factors might. Still, it’s important for everyone to recognize these risks and take preventive steps like regular skin checks and using sun protection.

Signs & Symptoms 

It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any of the following changes of your skin: 

• Changes in Moles – This include alteration in size, shape, colour, or texture of existing moles. 
• New Growths – The appearance of new moles, sores, or lesions that do not heal within a reasonable time frame should be evaluated. 
• Unusual spots – Pay attention to any spots that are different from others on your skin, particularly those that are dark, itchy, bleeding, or scabbing. 

The earlier skin cancer is found and treated, the better your chances of avoiding surgery and reducing the risk of serious outcomes like disfigurement or death.

Reducing your Skin Cancer RIsk 

The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable through sun protection measures. According to Better Health Victoria, Australians are encouraged to be ‘Sun Smart’ which involves a combination of the following protective measures: 

• Slip on sun-protective clothing
• Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 50+ every two hours 
• Slap on a broad-brimmed hat 
• Seek shade 
• Slide on sunglasses that meet Australian standards 

Regular skin checks are also crucial for early detection and successful treatment of skin cancer. 

Reduce your Risk of Skin Cancer 

If you’re worried that your workforce might be at higher risk for skin cancer, it’s important to evaluate the specific risks. Regular skin checks, sun protection gear, and education about UV exposure can help employees understand and reduce their skin cancer risk.

With BizHealth, you can conduct regular workplace skin checks to reduce the risk of skin cancer among workers of all ages in Australia. Our expert team will ensure that your workforce receives the best care and guidance to stay healthy and safe.

By entrusting us, your workforce will be in expert hands. Contact us today for more information on how you can protect your workforce.