Skin cancer check-ups vital

A skin cancer screening hosted by Busselton Lions Club earlier this month has detected a higher than average number of potentially dangerous lesions, highlighting the importance of regular check-ups.

Some 172 people were screened over two days by the Lions Cancer Institute’s mobile screening facility from February 16-17, resulting in 112 lesions being detected.

Of all detected, more than 35 per cent of lesions could be considered life-threatening.

Data collected showed it had been more than a year since about 50 per cent of participants had been screened, and for more than 30 per cent of participants, it was their first time being screened.

Only 5 per cent of people had been screened in the past six months.

Busselton Lions Club secretary Philip Caunt said all lesions were suspect only until proven by further investigation, and stressed the importance of early detection and the sun-safe message: “Slip, slop, slap”.

Cancer Council recommends all adults check their skin and moles every three months and those at risk should undergo formal examination at least once a year.

During the screening, Busselton Lions Club presented a $5000 cheque to the Lions Cancer Institute.

The donated money was raised at the club’s second hand shed, supported by donations of recyclable items.