With temperatures set to soar across the state this Summer, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (Queensland Section) (RFDS) is reminding everyone to stay sun safe and protect their skin.
Whether you're working, exercising, or simply soaking up the great outdoors, following sun-smart behaviours can significantly reduce your risk of skin damage and cancer.
And for those who live and work on the land, it's especially important to be mindful of the risks of chronic sun exposure.
RFDS Dermatologist Dr Stephen Andrews works in conjunction with the organisation’s dedicated primary health care team, flying in and out of communities across south-western Queensland from the RFDS Charleville Base to assist in the delivery of potentially life-saving skin cancer surveillance and treatment.
“We suggest Queenslanders have a conversation with their GP about their skin history, to consider an appropriate plan for skin protection, and surveillance that best suits them”, Dr Andrews said.
“Regardless, it is important that everyone is aware of their skin themselves, so any self-noticed changes can be reviewed promptly by a doctor.
“If skin cancers are found early, often the treatments are simpler and the long-term consequences reduced.”
According to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with two-thirds of us diagnosed with the disease before the age of 70.
Dr Andrews said the RFDS skin clinics play a crucial role in early detection and treatment for people living in the bush.
“Our dedicated outreach skin clinics are currently offered a number of times per year in Birdsville, Thargomindah, Jundah, Stonehenge, Yaraka, Windorah, Eulo and Yowah; complementing the wonderful work our primary care teams do in these areas,” he said.
“Wherever they are based, however, it is important for patients to understand that if they have any concerns about their skin, they don’t need to wait for a specific skin clinic, and should make an appointment to chat to their GP at any stage.”
For more information about sun safety, sunscreens, and self-surveillance (tips on how to monitor your own skin at home), visit the Cancer Council of Australia's Sun Safety webpage here. The Australasian College of Dermatologists also offers Sun Protection, self-surveillance and Skin Cancer advice here.
