National Skin Cancer Action Week 16-22 November

With National Skin Cancer Action Week set to start on 16 November, Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists are teaming up, and event ambassadors Stephanie Rice and Michael Clarke are helping promote the campaign.

By age 70, two-thirds of Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer.

This year, the theme will be 'Your Summer, Your Skin, Your Story' and it's designed to serve as a reminder to all Australians that sun protection saves lives. Individuals are encouraged to share their skin cancer stories and the impact it has had on on them.

In 2011, more than 2000 people in Australia died from skin cancer. It’s one of the most preventable cancers and National Skin Cancer Action Week seeks to reiterate the importance of Slip, Slop, Slap Seek and Slide.

When UV levels are three or above, the Cancer Council are asking all Australians to slip on some sun protective clothing, slop on some SPF30+ (or higher) sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on some sunglasses. A combination of these measures, along with getting to know your skin and regularly checking to pick up on any changes, are the keys to reducing your skin cancer risk.

With melanoma being the most common cancer in Australians aged 15 to 44, the week is a timely reminder to young Australians that if sun safety and skin awareness are a priority, they need not be another statistic.