It is now summer and the warmer weather means we will be spending more time outdoors, it is important to be sun-safe!
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In 2013, more than 2,200 Australians died from this almost entirely preventable disease.
The main cause of skin cancer is overexposure to UV radiation. This is produced by the sun, but it can also come from other sources, such as solariums (sun beds). While these are now banned in Australia, people who used a solarium before age 35 have an almost 60% greater risk of melanoma.
Most parts of Australia have high levels of UV radiation all year round. UV radiation cannot be seen or felt and it is not related to temperature, but it can cause:
- sunburn
- premature skin ageing
- damage to skin cells, which leads to skin cancer.
The best way to prevent skin cancer is by using sun protection measures. Slip, slop, slap, seek and slide to protect your skin from overexposure to the sun and sun damage.
Slip
Wear clothing that covers your neck, shoulders, arms, legs and torso. The best protection comes from closely woven fabrics. For clothes designed for sun protection, the higher the UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), the greater the protection.
Slop
Apply a water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30+ or higher at least 20 minutes before going outside, as it takes this long to sink into the skin. Reapply every two hours, after swimming and after any activity that causes you to sweat or rub the sunscreen off.
Slap
Wear a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face, neck and ears.
Seek
Use shade from trees, umbrellas, buildings or any type of canopy. Be aware that UV radiation is reflective and bounces off surfaces such as concrete, snow, water and sand, causing sun damage even when you think you’re shaded.
Slide
Wear sunglasses that meet the Australian and New Zealand standard AS/NZS 1067:2003 and have an EPF (eye protection factor) of 10. Wraparound styles are best.
For more information visit the cancer council website.