Cancer Council WA Chief Executive, Ashley Reid recently revealed he has been diagnosed with Melanoma Cancer. As a typical Australian child growing up in the 1970’s, Ashley spent a lot of time playing outdoors without a hat or sunscreen*.
This is a common story and one that we hear quite often in the clinic. Melanoma Cancer is the third most common cancer in Australia, with one Australian diagnosed every 30 minutes. It is the most common cancer for people aged 20 to 39.
National Cancer Council figures* also show men are twice as likely to die from melanoma as women. In 2020, of the 1,401 people who died of melanoma, 939 were men.
Survival Rates
The good news is in the last decade, the 5-year overall survival rate for advanced melanoma has increased from <10% to >50%. The recent development of immunotherapy and targeted treatment has largely contributed to this improvement.
In addition to those treatments, 90% of melanomas can be cured by surgery if caught early. Fortunately for Mr Reid, he was aware of the risk factors, took action quickly and was able to get treatment before it spread further.
How to Prevent Melanoma Cancer
Our experienced Oncologists here at Tasman Health suggest the following preventative measures for individuals at increased risk and individuals highly exposed to sunlight:
- Above all – avoid getting sunburnt
- At least 20 minutes before going outside during the day, thoroughly apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, with an SPF of 15 for daily use and at least SPF 30 for intense sun exposure.
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours for prolonged sun exposure
- Wear long-sleeve protective clothing made from a UV rated fabric
- Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day
- Hat and sunglasses
- Regular skin checks – both at home and with an experienced Skin Cancer Professional
Tasman Health Care is an Oncology clinic and research-focused group based on Queensland’s Gold Coast. We have an onsite Day Infusion Unit and specialise in Melanoma Cancer care and treatment. We also provide a large percentage of our patients, insured or uninsured, the opportunity to access new pharmaceuticals only available through a trial opportunity.
To make an appointment with one of our Doctors, please contact us (07) 5613 2480 or reception@tasmanhealthcare.com.au.
*Source: ABC News Article 2022
