RESIDENTS in Dubbo have been warned to have regular checks for skin cancer as the summer months approach.
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Newly-released figures from Cancer Council NSW predict that from January 2016, at least 228 people in Western NSW will be diagnosed with skin cancer every year and that 89 per cent of the cases will be melanoma cases.
The figures show that 21 of those people were expected to die. The total number of skin cancers predicted to be diagnosed a year in NSW was 5000, with 624 leading to death.
The council said Australia was among the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.
With the warmer months fast approaching and a predicted El Nino event bringing in temperature rises, residents are being advised to “Slip, Slop, Slap”.
Although those who worked outdoors were at risk of developing a skin cancer or aggressive melanoma, those who have infrequent but intense exposure to the sun were also at a risk.
Doctor Sunil Jacob of Dubbo Medical and Allied Health Group has advised residents to visit their general practitioner every two years for a regular skin check.
He said he believed Dubbo’s geographical position placed residents at a high risk of developing a skin cancer.
Farmers, tradesmen and those in the transport industry were warned to be careful.
“Those jobs require people to do a lot of work outdoors, it’s important they wear the right clothing,” Dr Jacob said.
He recommended wide-brim hats, sunglasses, long sleeved shirts and pants to be worn throughout the year.
Dr Jacob said it was important for skin cancers to be detected early, with treatment difficulties possible depending on the stage of the diagnosis.
“We have an aging population in Dubbo too, which sees a number patients coming in with long-term sun damage,” he said.
Dr Jacob said if residents were concerned with a spot which had changed colour or shape, they should contact their general practitioner for a test as soon as possible.
Dubbo community members have been rallying to raise funds for Cancer Council NSW to contribute to a brighter, cancer-free future in Western NSW.
The council’s Daffodil Day on Friday is an opportunity for residents to help improve vital cancer research, prevention programs and support services for victims of all types of cancer.
A council spokesperson said Dubbo was one of the 650 sites across NSW participating in Daffodil Day, which aimed to raise $3.3 million.
“People can show their support by wearing a pin or by making an online donation,” she said.
Residents will be able to buy at stalls at Bunnings Warehouse, Orana Mall, Dubbo Post Office and Dubbo Square. Online donations can be made at www.daffodilday.com.au