Local sportspeople are stepping up to the plate as Skin Cancer Community Champions, reminding Canberrans to stay SunSmart and get your skin checked.

National Skin Cancer Action Week, 20-26 November, is focused on raising awareness of skin cancer prevention behaviours.

Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with approximately two in three Aussies diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, it is estimated that almost twice as many men as women will die from melanoma this year alone.

This week, Cancer Council released research that shows less than half (49 per cent) of Australian men regularly seek shade to protect themselves from the sun during summer, and less than a third (29 per cent) regularly use sunscreen.

According to Cancer Council ACT CEO, Verity Hawkins, “the research indicates men are less likely to practise UV protective behaviours, also showing that almost half [47 per cent] of men spend time outdoors during peak UV hours throughout summer”.

“Sport plays a significant role in our summer culture. It’s great to see our community members step up to play a role in creating skin cancer awareness, with a focus on preventative measures we can all take each day.”

Local Skin Cancer Community Champion, Lawrie Kirk, is a life-long cricketer.

“Now in my 60s I have played a lot of cricket,” he says. “In recent years I have made sure I always get a full skin check at the end of cricket season.

“This year I had a small bump behind my ear that itched, would bleed when scratched and would not go away. A trip to my GP and we found out it needed to be removed. After a 7×1.4cm excision, I am pleased to say it was all removed.

“It’s important to remember that the skin behind your ear is uncovered when you are batting and wearing a helmet. Maybe I need to bat more quickly to reduce my time out in the middle!” Lawrie laughs.

 “Our beautiful region has so many wonderful outdoor spaces to spend time in, which is why it is so important for Canberrans to follow sun safety messages,” said Dr Marisa Paterson MLA, on behalf of ACT Health. “Not only during this week of national awareness, but as we move into summer.”

Australians are being reminded to use the five forms of sun protection whenever the UV level is three or above: Slip on sun-protective clothing, Slop on broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 (or higher) sunscreen, Slap on a broad brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on sunglasses.

Find out more at actcancer.org

Get the latest Canberra news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Canberra Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.