Hairdressers can spot skin cancers and save your life
New research has found an unlikely new ally in the fight against cancer – hairdressers. Yep, your humble barber or hair stylist could in fact save your life.
A recent study by the Australasian College of Dermatologists has found that hairdressers could be uniquely qualified to spot melanomas on the head, particularly in men with thinning hair. It was discovered that 5 per cent of the 237 patients involved in the study first suspected they had skin cancer after it was pointed out their hairdresser.
“In Australia, where we have one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world, it is important that everyone is aware of recognising changes to spots or nodules on their own skin and on others,” said head researcher Professor John Kelly.
The Australasian College of Dermatologists hopes these new findings will encourage more hairdressers to bring any skin anomalies to the attention of their client.
“Aggressive melanomas can grow quite quickly and therefore, if you see any changes to your scalp that do not resolve after a month, do not put it off, see your doctor immediately,” Kelly added.
To prevent skin cancer, particularly on the scalp, it is recommended that all Australians wear hats between 10am and 4pm during summer.
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Related links:
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New app to help fight skin cancer
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