After posting a few bikini photos online, this popular Australian-based fitness influencer was bashed by fans for being “irresponsible” and sending the “wrong message.” The photos in question were posted by model Tammy Hembrow as a reminder to her followers of the importance of annual skin cancer screenings.
In a recent TikTok video, she confessed that she had to have a “chunk” removed from her leg due to melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that can spread quickly if not treated in time. It often begins as dark or abnormal looking moles on the body which can be easily missed or overlooked by those who lack awareness and knowledge about this deadly disease.
According to Matthew Browne from the Melanoma Institute of Australia, melanoma is most common amongst 20-39 year olds and should be taken very seriously no matter what age you are.
@tammyhembrow Go book that skin check rn guys ????
Tammy revealed in her TikTok video that she rarely applies sunscreen despite spending so much time in the sun – something many people are guilty of.
However, her message was clear: wear SPF while out in the sun and make sure you get your skin checked regularly by a professional dermatologist. Dr Shreya Andric also warned against ignoring your feet when getting checked for any suspicious marks or moles; Bob Marley tragically died from a melanoma under his big toe.
Her fans were shocked when they saw photos on social media just weeks later of Tammy sunbathing with a bandage on her leg where the cancer had been removed.
One disgruntled fan called this promotion “downright dumb” and said it was sending the wrong message to young people who follow her on social media.
And we can certainly see their point: why would you post a photo promoting the importance of skin cancer screenings while you’re out sunbathing? Seems counterintuitive.
