Skin cancer is very common in white populations worldwide, but is also the highest rated type of cancer in South Africa. The major cause: overexposure to UV radiation during childhood and adolescence, is well known and easily avoidable.

Black or brown skinned people have a negligible incidence of skin cancer because of the melanin pigment in their skin, but they are still prone to sun-related damage.

Darker skinned people have occurrence of skin cancer around the eye, around the nails, inside and under their feet as well as on scars, where the skin tissue has been damaged.

Because the sun causes most skin cancers, it has been estimated that at least 75 % could be prevented by adequate skin protection in childhood alone.

Furthermore, skin cancers are visible cancers, and can be detected early and treated before they pose a threat to life.

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is warning all South Africans they are at risk for developing skin cancer. Our sunny skies, warm climate and outdoor lifestyle contribute to Ultraviolet skin damage that increases our risk for skin cancer.

South Africa has the second highest incidence of skin cancer in the world - Australia the highest.

• fair skin, light hair, light eye colour and the tendency to burn easily and tan with difficulty
• large brown moles at birth
• unusual moles (larger than 0,76 cm, irregular in shape and multi-coloured)
• a record of blistering sunburns, especially when young
• indoor occupations and outdoor recreational habits
• a family history of malignant melanoma
• had a malignant melanoma in the past

Did you know that 80 % of skin damage occurs before the age of 18 and manifests later in life? The skin is the largest organ of the body and is very precious.

Skin cancer is very common in white populations worldwide, but is also the highest rated type of cancer in South Africa.

The major cause: overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation during childhood and adolescence, is well known and easily avoidable.

Black or brown skinned people have a negligible incidence of skin cancer because of the melanin pigment in their skin, but they are still prone to sun-related damage.

Darker skinned people have occurrence of skin cancer around the eye, around the nails, inside and under their feet as well as on scars, where the skin tissue has been damaged.

Because the sun causes most skin cancers, it has been estimated that at least 75% could be prevented by adequate skin protection in childhood alone. Furthermore, skin` cancers are visible cancers, and can be detected early and treated before they pose a threat to life. (SOURCE: CANSA)