Australia has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world. One person is diagnosed with melanoma every 30 minutes and sadly one person dies every 6 hours. Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting 20 to 39-year-old Australians and is often referred to as Australia’s National Cancer. However, over 90% of melanoma cases can be successfully treated if found early.
The Australian Melanoma Research Foundation was established in 2006 to provide funding for research into better diagnosis and treatment, melanoma awareness and early detection programs.
As part of its community engagement program, the Foundation will be providing skin checks on 23rd August at the Southern Mallee Football and Netball Clubrooms in Lameroo. The Round will be the Southern Mallee Suns vs Imperials Football and Netball Games. This has been arranged at the suggestion of AMRF Ambassador Glenda Thomson who is passionate about educating people about the risks of too much exposure to UV radiation, especially from outdoor activities by the younger members of the community.
Qualified melanographers (trained nurses with further qualifications in skin cancer detection) will be on hand at the Clubrooms to provide skin spot checks. Anything of concern to the melanographer will be recorded and details should be referred onto the person’s GP.
These checks will be provided by a ‘first in best dressed’ system, so we encourage everyone to drop by the Clubrooms during the hours of 9.00am – 2.00pm. The expected crowd will include players, families and spectators and everyone attending will have the opportunity to get a skin check on the day and be reminded to have regular checks by a health professional. Raffles will also be part of the fundraising on the day. All funds raised and donated will go to the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation.
The event was a great success in raising awareness to the huge footy and netball crowds, players and spectators. Skin checks provided on the day were very worthwhile, with some spots needing further investigation, so these checks are important to not only raise awareness to everyone but those who need to follow up, this can change outcomes as early detection is key.
Thanks to Southern Suns, Glenda Thomson, Harriet & Tamara.
