11 MINUTES IS ALL TAKES!
SUN SAFETY EXPERTS BEG AUSSIES TO MAKE SMARTER DECISIONS THIS SUMMER
Temperatures are rising – and so are the rates of skin cancer in Australia, with more than 2000 Aussies expected to die from the disease in 2023 according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
This year is our first summer without major
COVID restrictions, but experts warn we shouldn’t be relaxing our approach to sun safety.
Emma Glassenbury, head of Sunsmart, says that two out of three Aussies will develop a melanoma in their lifetime. She tells New Idea the harsh Australian sun can be deadly if we don’t safely avoid the dangerous UVS with sunscreen and protective clothing.
“UV radiation in Australia is strong enough to cause sunburn in as little as 11 minutes on a fine summer day,” Emma explains.
“Australia also has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, meaning people need to be regularly reminded that skin cancer is real. UV radiation is a consistent, daily risk to our health.”
Each year as we approach the warmer months, there are often calls for the government and health organisations to make sunscreen free in Australia. The argument is based on other cancer prevention methods – including breast and bowel cancer screening – being free of charge. Skin cancer is also one of the costliest cancers to treat Down Under, despite it being almost entirely preventable.
However, Emma warns that while sunscreen is a great option for sun safety, it’s not our only defence against UV rays.
“Sunscreen is not a suit of armour and should be used with the other four sunprotection measures,” she says “If sunscreen was freely available, we would need to be mindful of raising awareness that other sunprotection methods still need to be used.”
Along with slopping on SPF30, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen (which should be put on 20 minutes before going out in the sun, and then reapplied every two hours), Sunsmart’s steps include slipping on protective clothing, slapping on a hat, seeking shade and sliding on sunglasses.
Skin cancer prevention programs like Sunsmart aim to reduce this tragic statistic.
Sunsmart encourages people to “get to know” their skin and seek medical advice if you notice any changes, no matter how small.
“Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if found early,” Emma adds.
“If you notice anything unusual, including new spots or a change in colour, shape or size, visit a GP as soon as possible.”
By April Rose
‘2000 Aussies are expected to die from the disease
this year’