As the golden Australian sun graces our skies, bringing warmth and light to our days, it's easy to bask in its glow without a second thought. But beneath the surface, there's a hidden danger that many of us, especially those of us over 60, tend to underestimate – the threat of skin cancer. It's a topic that hits close to home for many Australians, and one that we at the Seniors Discount Club take very seriously.

The story of Paige, a Gold Coast woman, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being vigilant about our skin health. Paige, like many of us, conducted regular checks on her moles and freckles, a practice that's all too necessary in a country where two out of three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Despite her diligence, Paige's concerns about a changing mole were initially dismissed by her doctor – not once, but twice.


As summer approaches, it's crucial to remember that UV rays don't discriminate between sunny and cloudy days. They can be just as harmful when the sky is overcast, penetrating the skin and potentially leading to cancerous changes. This is a message that can't be overstated, especially considering the TAL SpotChecker study's findings that a significant number of Australians neglect sun protection on cloudy days.


Paige's experience is a harrowing tale of misdiagnosis and the fight for survival that ensued. After noticing a mole near the underwire of her bra – an area not typically exposed to much sun – she sought medical advice. Despite the mole doubling in size and changing color, her doctor assured her it was 'fine for now.' It was only after a friend's encouragement to seek a second opinion that the mole was recognized for what it truly was – an invasive malignant melanoma at level 3, just millimeters away from spreading further into her body.


This close call is a sobering reminder that we must trust our instincts and advocate for our health. Paige's 'niggling feeling' in her gut may well have saved her life. It's a lesson for all of us to take seriously any changes in our skin, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.

The Skin Cancer College of Australasia urges us to watch for signs that could indicate skin cancer, such as spots that are sore, changing, abnormal, or new. Regular self-scans are essential, and if you notice anything concerning, it's imperative to consult a GP or skin doctor without delay.

As we enjoy our outdoor activities and the lifestyle that our beautiful country affords us, let's not forget the importance of sun safety. Dr. Priya Chagan from TAL Insurance emphasizes that regardless of the weather, we must protect ourselves when UV levels are three or above. This means applying sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher, wearing sunglasses and a hat, and seeking shade whenever possible.


Paige's story is a powerful testament to the need for awareness and action. It's a call to arms for all of us to be proactive in our skin health, to understand the risks, and to take the necessary steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
We invite you, our readers, to share your own experiences with skin checks and sun safety. Have you ever had a similar experience with a mole or spot that was overlooked? How do you ensure you stay protected from the sun's harmful rays? Your stories and tips could make a difference in someone else's life. Let's continue the conversation and spread awareness together.