Most cancers diagnosed in Australia each year are skin cancers. Every year, more than 1200 Australians die from skin cancer. Yet it is almost totally preventable.
Skin can burn in as little as 15 minutes in the sun. The longer your unprotected skin is in the sun, the greater your risk of getting skin cancer.
It is not safe to get a tan at a solarium either — you’re being exposed to damaging ultraviolet rays that increase your risk of skin cancer.
Whenever UV radiation levels reach 3* (moderate) and above, sun protection is required. At that level UV radiation is intense enough to damage the skin and contribute to the risk of skin cancer. In Victoria from September to April, UV radiation levels are 3 and above for most of the day. Particular care should be taken between 10 am and 2 pm (11 am and 3 pm daylight saving time) when UV radiation levels reach their peak.
The SunSmart UV Alert is issued by the Bureau of Meteorology when the UV Index is forecast to reach 3 and above. It is reported in most daily newspapers and some television and radio weather forecasts across Australia.
To protect against skin damage and skin cancer when the UV level is 3 and above, use a combination of five sun protection measures:
From May to August, UV radiation levels in Victoria are usually low (below 3). Therefore, sun protection measures are not necessary during these months unless you are in alpine regions, or near highly reflective surfaces like snow or water.
*The Global Solar UV Index is a rating system adapted from the World Health Organization. It ranges from:
Visit the SunSmart website www.sunsmart.com.au for more information.
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