Important: From 1 January 2012, information on this website is being reviewed and must be read in conjunction with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
 |
Print-friendly page |
Skin cancer
Skin conditions
Eye damage
Heat related illnesses
Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. If you live in Queensland, you are at risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin cancer is a serious disease that can cause disfigurement and death. It is the most common cancer in Australia. Skin cancer is caused by an accumulation of overexposure to ultra violet radiation (UVR) from the sun or artificial sources penetrating the skin and damaging living cells. The UV index measures the daily levels of UV radiation. When the UV index is three or above it can damage your skin or lead to skin cancer.
There are three main types of skin cancer named after the type of cell in the skin from which they originate.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common but least dangerous. A BCC appears as a lump or scaly area. It may be red, pale or pearly in colour or a sore that won't heal.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) are less common than BCCs and not as dangerous as melanoma but may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. A melanoma appears as a new spot, or an existing spot, freckle or mole that changes and can be anywhere on the body. If left untreated, the cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. About 1200 Australians die every year from melanoma.
Sunspots are not a form of skin cancer, but are a warning sign as they occur on skin which has had enough sun exposure to develop skin cancer. Sunspots are small, scaly patches of skin that generally occur on the arms, face, nose and ears.
Nearly all skin cancers can be cured if detected and treated early. Skin cancers rarely hurt and are much more frequently seen than felt. It is important to regularly check your skin (every three months) for changes in shape, colour or size of an existing freckle or mole or a new spot. Cancer Council Queensland (non-Queensland Government link) has more information on how to perform skin self examination.
Contact a medical practitioner if you are concerned about skin changes.
As well as cancer, solar UV radiation can cause skin conditions such as sunburn and premature skin ageing (wrinkling).
Too much sun can also damage eyes. Some problems can be short-lived, others can be permanent.
Short term eye problems include:
More serious and long-term eye problems include:
Very hot and extreme heat conditions can lead to heat related health problems. Types of heat related illnesses include:
For further information about ultra violet radiation
Cancer Council Australia
Bureau of Meteorology UV and Sun Protection services
Non-Queensland Government links
National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign
Skin cancer self examination
Copyright |
Disclaimer |
Privacy |
Access keys |
Other languages
© The State of Queensland (Department of Justice and Attorney-General) 2009.