HEALTH

from Your Time Magazine Sunshine Coast - July 2021

TRAVEL

Do you know what to look for when checking for signs of skin cancer? A dark mole or a new freckle – it isn’t always that simple. The ABCDEFGs of skin cancer can be a good way to remember common signs: Asymmetrical: the two halves of the lesion don’t match Border: edges are uneven or blotchy Colour: there are multiple colours Diameter: bigger than 6mm Evolving: changes in shape, colour, or size Funny-looking: looks different to the others Growing: growth over weeks or months.

Skin cancer may show one, all, or none of these signs, but the naked eye is not enough to tell if a lesion is cancerous. Some are invisible without the aid of special tools and a skin cancer doctor’s expertise.

“It is frightening how many skin cancers we see each week which show no signs and are nearly invisible to the naked eye,” says Dr Alvin Prakash of National Skin Cancer Centres.

“That’s why we recommend a head-to-toe skin cancer check annually, as picking up changes early can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment.”

Winter is ideal for a check, as signs of skin cancer are often easier for skin cancer doctors to identify without the disguise of a summer tan.

“Skin cancer can grow fast, come in various shapes and colours, and sometimes show no symptoms until in an advanced stage,” Dr Prakash says. “Waiting for summer to get your skin check is a potentially fatal decision.”

Early skin cancer detection and treatment is vital in south-east Queensland, where melanoma diagnoses are up to 57 per cent above national average.

“Early detection through an annual full-body skin cancer check is the best defence,” Dr Prakash says. “Detect skin cancers in the early stages to minimise complex, invasive and expensive treatments and ultimately save life.” Visit skincancercentres.com.au Stem Enhance ULTRA – the only clinically proven and patented product in history that triggers the release of our own stem cells. • ANTI-AGEING IS NOW A REALITY • PROMOTES POSITIVE MIND and MOOD • SCIENCE-BASED CLINICAL TRIALS

“I am 70 and now have no more brain fog, sore joints, bleeding gums, don’t wear glasses and miraculously am back to playing tennis 4 times a week. Please call me for more information on this natural product which is.”