Dear editor,
Many of us make a promise or two at this time of year to do more for our health. But there’s one subject many skip when planning their New Year resolutions, even though it affects two in three Australians in their lifetime. Australia has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. But the earlier skin cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
More than 70 per cent of skin cancers are found by people themselves or by their loved ones, so choosing to get to know your skin and checking it regularly could be a decision that saves your life.
In 2026, routinely look over your skin from head to toe. Ask someone you trust to look over those hard-to-reach places, like your back. If you notice any spots that are new or that have changed in shape, colour or size, go and get it checked out by your GP.
This simple habit shift will not only give you peace of mind. It might also be the thing that gives you more Christmases and New Year’s Eves with your loved ones. If that’s not a resolution worth sticking with, we don’t know what is.
Emma Glassenbury
Head of SunSmart, Cancer Council Victoria
