Statistics reveal two out of three Australians will develop a skin cancer in their lifetime, with Melanoma killing more young Australians (15 to 39-year-olds) than any other single cancer.
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With early detection, more than 95 per cent of skin cancers can be easily treated.
The Rotary Clubs of Kiama and Gerringong, with the support of a local benefactor, have taken action in the early detection of skin cancer in our area.
In the last six months they have conducted three free skin screening sessions in Kiama and Gerringong providing full skin checks.
The next free screening will be at the Presbyterian Church Hall in Kiama, on the corner of Shoalhaven and Terralong Streets, on Sunday, April 29 between 12pm and 3pm.
Local GPs, Dr Robyn Dalley, Dr John McAlpine, Dr Brian Cox and Dr Mark Burgess have volunteered their services.
Of the 185 people screened, so far, almost 30 per cent have been referred to their GPs for further investigation of skin lesions.
Unfortunately, we have two confirmed reports of Melanomas from those who have been screened. Both have had good out comes as a result of early detection.
Melanoma is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in Australia and Australian has one of the highest incidence rate of melanoma in the world.
Rare melanomas can occur in parts of the skin or body that have never been exposed to the sun. Melanoma is the most prevalent cancer in young people.
In 2013, 12,744 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in Australia, accounting for nearly one in ten cancer diagnoses. There were 1467 deaths due to melanoma in Australia in 2014.
Early detection saves lives and it could be yours or someone you love. If you can not attend the free screening take the time to make an appointment for a skin review with your GP or a GP who has specialised in skin cancer detection, today.
