Skin cancer occurs when skin cells are damaged, by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Booking in to have a skin cancer check assesses your skin cancer risk and identifies any current skin lesions of concern.

We recommend you see your GP for a skin cancer check at least every 12 months. Please ring to book an appointment with your GP if you notice any of the following signs:

•Changes in a mole size, shape or colour

•The edges of a mole have begun to change

•The mole starts and continues to grow

•The mole is not a solid brown colour, but multicoloured instead

How to protect your skin

For best protection, we recommend a combination of sun protection measures:

1.Slip on some sun-protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.

2.Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.

3.Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.

4.Seek shade.

5.Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards.