About skin cancer
Skin cancer can grow when the cells that make up our skin are damaged causing them to grow abnormally.
Each time skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, changes take place in the structure and function of our skin cells. Over time, the skin can become permanently damaged and the damage will worsen with each exposure.
Increased sun protection against sun exposure will prevent skin cancer at whatever age it is applied, with every additional decade of high sun exposure or solarium use further increasing the risk of skin cancer. By reducing recreational sun exposure at any age, the risk of melanoma is reduced.
All skin types can be damaged by exposure to UV radiation. People with skin types that are less likely to burn can still receive enough UV exposure to risk developing skin cancer.
Also refer to:
- Sunburn
- Health risks of exposure to UV radiation
- Cancer Council Victoria for general information about cancer and other cancer types
- World Health Organization, Intersun Programme for frequently asked questions relating to skin cancer
