We all know that New Zealand’s sun isn’t the easiest on the skin – that’s why our skin cancer rate is among the highest the in the world.
The blazing sunshine and hole in the ozone layer over New Zealand leads to thousands of people each year suffering from a form of skin cancer.
And yet new research reveals that a concerning number of Kiwis are not prioritising their skin health. A staggering 84% of those surveyed have not had a skin check in the past year; and more than half (52%) have never had one at all. Just 16% get a skin check annually, the frequency recommended by skin specialists.
“It’s worrying to see that many Kiwis are not looking out for their skin and having an annual skin check,” says Dr Sam Mayhew, Skin Institute skin cancer doctor. “This is one of the best ways to protect yourself against skin cancer, along with minimising your sun exposure. It’s really important that everyone books a skin check, whether or not you think you’re at risk, or have something to be concerned about.”
Despite all the newly available smartphone apps that claim to detect skin cancer, the best way is still by a trained doctor looking at your skin with a DermLite (a device that enables a trained eye to detect skin cancer and other types of skin conditions early).
A key fact about skin cancer is it often starts with a small spot, which, if caught early enough, is more than likely curable. Which is why Skin Institute also offers free spot checks if you just have one or two moles or lesions that seem concerning. Follow-up checks are also often less expensive than the initial consult when you opt to pay for a full body consultation.
“The signs of melanoma vary and are not always obvious,” says Dr Mayhew. “That’s why it’s so important to book in with a skin cancer specialist instead of relying on yourself, and to keep on top of your health by booking in annually. If caught early enough, skin cancer like melanoma has a good chance of being treated successfully.”
Skin Institute is a multi-disciplinary specialist centre specialising in skin cancer healthcare and treatment including free spot checks, full body skin cancer consultations, skin biopsies and excisions, as well as offering Mohs Micrographic and CCPDMA surgery – the most advanced surgical method of skin cancer removal. It also specialises in appearance medicine, dermatology, and vein treatments.
Kiwis can book a free* spot check or full body skin cancer consultation online at one of Skin Institute’s 13 clinics nationwide.
Stats – Skin Institute Skin Check Survey Oct 2022
