UQ Health Care supports your skin health. Approximately, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70. We encourage our UQ community to stay sun smart and book an appointment with us if you have any concerns about your skin health.
Why are we a sun smart campus?
Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australians. Every year, in Australia skin cancers account for around 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers. The incidence of skin cancer is one of the highest in the world.
Prevention
The majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. It’s important to avoid sunburn.
St Lucia campus offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Whenever we are in the sun we should remember to: wear protective clothing, a wide-brim hat and sunglasses, and apply SPF30+ broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Where possible, seek shade.
What to look for
It is important to check yourself regularly. Become familiar with the look of your skin, so you pick up any changes that might suggest a skin cancer. Look for:
- crusty, non-healing sores
- small lumps that are red, pale or pearly in colour
- new spots, freckles or any moles changing in colour, thickness or shape.
If you notice anything unusual do not hesitate to book an appointment.
