WHAT IS SKIN CANCER?

Skin cancer is a disease of the skin cell caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, which damages the cell's genes.

Because of our outdoor lifestyle and our proximity to the equator, Australians are exposed to a large amount of solar radiation.

Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.

The most dangerous form of skin cancer - melanoma - affects more than 8,000 Australians every year, and kills over 1,000 of them. Queensland alone accounts for 2,000 new cases and over 200 deaths each year. Most cases of skin cancer are the result of too much sun exposure during childhood. And it can strike any person, at any age.

The good news is skin cancer is largely preventable. That's why it's so important to understand how to prevent this cancer - the most common type of cancer in Australia. Please see our SunWise Tips to find out more about being safe in the sun. 

This information has been provided from the Queensland Institute of Medical Research.