With summer just around the corner and today's forecast saying there is a high chance of rain (90%) with 7 to 40mm forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology, it may not seem pertinent to talk about skin cancer. However, this week is the Cancer Council’s National Skin Cancer Action Week, so it is a reminder for Australians to visit their doctor for a skin check.

The Australian Medical Association is backing National Skin Cancer Action Week this year by highlighting the danger posed by Australia’s ‘national cancer’ and the importance of early detection with skin checks.

AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said Australians cannot be complacent as Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. 

“While much has changed since Dorothy Mackellar wrote how she loved a sunburnt country, for many of us Australia is still synonymous with sunshine, outdoor activities and the beach,” Dr McMullen said.

“Australians spend a great deal of time in the sun, whether it be playing sport or enjoying recreation, and for many people their everyday work requires them to spend long periods outside.

“It is no surprise then roughly two out of every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some stage of their lives.”

Dr McMullen said while the incidence of skin cancer is extremely high, the success rate of early detection and treatment is something to celebrate.

“We know that with early detection through the form of a skin check most of these skin cancers can be treated with somewhere in the order of a 98 per cent success rates for treating skin cancers, if detected early.

“The AMA is doing its bit for our own staff in Canberra who are getting their skin in the game with a visit from Skin Check Champions this week for their skin checks. I would encourage all Australians to talk to their GP about how they can get a skin check. 

“Of course I also encourage Australians to be vigilant and follow the Cancer Council’s ongoing advice to slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses when enjoying the outdoors. Prevention is important and, along with detection, goes a long way to keeping Australians safe while having fun in the sun.”