The ‘bronzed Aussie’ is a cultural cornerstone. We’ve long associated the icon with all that’s Australian; the outdoors, the beach and an active lifestyle.

So it’s no surprise that, despite medical research and mortality statistics that suggest otherwise, 50% of Australians still believe a tan is healthy.

 

Glowing – with good health?

Tanning is a sign of skin damage – a response to ultraviolet radiation (UVR).

UVR exposure – be it from the sun, or via a solarium – poses serious health risks. These include sunburn, premature aging of the skin and optical damage.

It is also the most significant cause of skin cancer in Australia.

A sunburnt country

Australia has one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the world. In fact, two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.

The good news is, early detection can lead to a positive prognosis in most cases.

Non-melanoma

Basil Cell Carcinoma (‘BCC’) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (‘SCC’), generally referred to as ‘non-melanoma’, are the more common type of skin cancer.

They form in cells near the skin’s surface (or ‘epidermis’). Symptoms may include sores that won’t heal, the appearance of new growths, or changes to existing warts or moles.

Non-melanoma is considered less dangerous because it typically doesn’t spread to other parts of the body. Even so, treatment is still necessary – usually in the form of removal, ointment or radiation therapy.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the less common but more serious form of skin cancer. It occurs when the skin cells produce excessive levels of melanin – to the extent they begin to grow abnormally and invade surrounding tissue.

Treatment for melanoma depends on the patient’s age, general health and how advanced the condition is. It may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

Protect yourself

Get covered

There are many tips that can help protect you from UVR exposure, thereby reducing the risk of melanoma. But in the event that skin cancer did occur, how would you manage?

Critical Illness Cover can protect you – and your loved ones – from the financial consequences.

A Critical Illness claim provides a lump sum payment. This money can be used to fund medical costs, keep up with mortgage repayments and pay for day-to-day expenses – allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Insurers today will pay full benefits for more severe forms of melanoma.  Partial payments are typically also available for early stage melanoma in the ‘premier’ versions of their contracts.

To find out more about Critical Illness Cover, speak with your financial adviser.

Source | TAL