Bondi Beach and the Eastern suburbs is well-known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor lifestyle. Unfortunately, this also means that Bondi residents and visitors are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer due to prolonged sun exposure.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Australia, with two out of three Australians diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. More information regarding the types of skin cancer can be found at the Skin Cancer Council
It is important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. This includes wearing protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and using sunscreen with a high SPF. It is also recommended to avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak UV times, which in Australia is usually between 11 am and 3 pm.
If you live in Bondi, or surrounding Bondi Beach area, it is essential to get regular skin checks from a qualified doctor. Dr Pauline Yuan has a special interest in skin checks and skin cancer medicine and is able to perform a full skin cancer check.
Full skin examinations can help detect any skin abnormalities or signs of skin cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Overall, it is crucial to take sun safety seriously, no matter where you live. Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and perform skin self-examinations.
Skin self-examination is another important way to detect early signs of skin cancer and other skin conditions. Here are the steps you can follow for a thorough skin self-examination:
- Choose a well-lit room with a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror.
- Examine your body from head to toe, front and back, using the mirrors to see hard-to-reach areas like your back and scalp.
- Look for any moles, freckles, or other spots on your skin that have changed in size, shape, color, or texture.
- Pay attention to any new spots or growths on your skin.
- Check your face, neck, ears, and scalp. Use a comb or hair dryer to move your hair and examine your scalp.
- Check your hands, including the palms and backs, as well as your fingernails and toenails.
- Check the front and back of your legs and feet, including the soles and between the toes.
- Finally, ask a partner or family member to help you check hard-to-see areas like your back, buttocks, and behind your ears.
- If you notice any unusual spots or changes on your skin, make an appointment with your Bondi doctor or see your GP to obtain a referral to a dermatologist as soon as possible. Remember that early detection is key to successfully treating skin cancer and other skin conditions.
Ocean Medical Practice, located in the heart of Bondi has been servicing the local community for over 20 years. We offer an extensive range of services including Women’s and Children’s Health, Men’s Health, Travel Medicine, Mental Health and Sexual Health, Procedural medicine such as skin excisions, iron infusions, and Chronic disease medicine (to name a few).
We are reachable by public transport by bus from Bondi Junction and we are short 12 minute walk from Bondi Beach. Our growing team of GPs looking forward to meeting you.
