Seven suspected melanomas were found on patients at an annual free skin check day held in Halls Head recently.
The Skin Clinic hosted the event along with Melanoma WA to raise awareness and funding to fight the debilitating disease.
On the day, 111 skin checks were performed that resulted in 38 lesions of interest found and seven suspected melanomas.
Melanoma WA chief Clinton Heal said the statistics were alarming and he encouraged other local residents to attend the Mandurah Melanoma March to get checked.
The Mandurah Melanoma March is a fundraising event that involves either a five-kilometre walk or a 10-kilometre run.
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"Free skin checks are available for registered participants of the event,” Mr Heal said. "Participating in the Mandurah Melanoma March is a great way to show your support for those touched by melanoma."
In 2005, at the age of 22, Mr Heal was diagnosed with a stage four metastatic melanoma, and was given a 10 per cent chance of surviving two years.
He is understandably passionate about the cause and said a skin check only takes two to five minutes.
"Whether it's in the clinic or at the march, it is important to do,” Mr Heal said.
On Monday morning, the campaign had raised $1775.66.
The march will take place at Acerosa Park on the corner of Acerosa and Boardwalk boulevards in Halls Head.
Participants will have access to free skin checks on the day. Registration on the day opens at 7.30am and the march commences at 8am.
To register visit: melanomamarch.org.au.
Carla Hildebrandt
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
Journalist at the Mandurah Mail
