Go Spotty during Melanoma Awareness Week

Melanoma New Zealand.Melanoma Awareness Week (21st to 27th October 2019) aims to raise awareness of this terrible disease that affects over 4000 kiwis every year.

New Zealand has one the highest melanoma incidence rates in the world. Melanoma is the fourth most common cancer in NZ – more New Zealanders die from melanoma than drowning, car crashes or fires every year!

The risk of melanoma is reduced by avoiding sunburn and by protecting the skin against UV radiation. This includes seeking shade, wearing broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and clothing. Sunscreen should be used on skin that cannot be covered by clothing.

Protection is vitally important from September to April, especially between 10am and 4pm, which is when UV radiation is highest.

Sunbeds and/or sunlamps should be avoided as use of these treatments are associated with a 59 percent increase in the risk of melanoma if used before the age of 35.

Melanoma is treatable if diagnosed early. Early melanoma may not have any noticeable symptoms but melanomas usually appear as a changed or new mole.

The message is clear: Spot it. Stop it. Live on. If you notice anything new, changing or different on your skin, get it checked by a doctor. It could save your life!

Get involved during Melanoma Awareness Week

Choose a day, pick an activity and make a donation.

  • Spot the Difference: Create your own spot the difference picture. Know the skin you are in.
  • You could go spotty: Wear something spotty or dotty to get people thinking about melanoma and checking their skin for ‘spots’ or signs that could lead to melanoma later on in life.
  • Create a spot of art: Be inspired and create your own spotted picture. Transform white space with your own creativity.

Source: Melanoma Foundation of NZ website.

Published on Tuesday, October 1st, 2019, under Events
Page last updated: 30/09/2019

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