Skin Cancer: Prevention Starts at Home
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Cancer is one of the primary causes of death in Australia. According to statistics, there are over 43,200 people who suffered and died from cancer in 2011. Health organisations estimate 128, 000 new cases of cancer that will be identified this year and they say that the figures will continue to intensify in the next years. Thus, comprehensive studies are conducted in order to decrease these figures and find cure for cancer patients.
Skin Cancer Cases in Australia Skin cancer is among the most common cases in Australia. 80% of newly identified cancers are among three types of skin cancers: melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Statistics say that from 1982 to 2010, melanoma cases rose to 60%, while non-melanoma cancer grew by 14%.
Experts say that melanoma is more common in Australian men. There were 9.5 deaths for every 100,000 men compared to3.5 deaths per 100,000 women in 2011. This overwhelming situation has compelled certain people to form support and advocacy groups that will provide assistance.
UV Radiation and Skin Cancer Skin cancer is caused by exposure to the harsh ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Skin cells reproduce quickly and generate malignant tumours. Sometimes, melanomas grow from moles and they have white, blue, pink, purple or redcolours. Skin cancers can be cured when it is detected early, that is why doctors encourage regular checkups and tests. If the disease is not identified early, tumours will spread to other parts of the body and ultimately lead to death.
Skin Cancer Prevention Prevention is better than cure, they say. Skin cancer prevention must start at home. Parents must remind their children to avoid going outduring the noon and encourage them to wear protective clothing and sunscreen. More importantly, families should gear up their homes with screens and roller shutters. Skin cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Australia. Don’t be a victim of this killer disease by being informed and applying preventive measures personally and at home.
Sources: http://www.boardwalk.com.au/ http://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/what-is-cancer/facts-andfigures.html http://canceraustralia.gov.au/affected-cancer/cancer-types/melanomaskin/melanoma-skin-statistics http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/february2011/02072011melanoma.htm