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 Sun Protection
Why is sun protection important??
Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer anywhere in the world! In fact, skin cancers account for around 80% of all new cancers diagnosed each year in Australia.
It is important to remember that sun damage and the risk of developing skin cancer, is cumulative. That is, the more sun exposure over time, the more chance there is of developing skin cancer. So, prevention is the key!
You have a number of choices when considering maximising your protection from the sun. Remember, a combination works best!
- Minimise your time in the sun between 10:00am and 3:00pm. This is the time when UV Rays are at there strongest! So avoid going in to the sun during this time when possible.
- Seek shade provided by trees, buildings or temporary shade structures whenever possible.
- Wear suitable clothing that provides you with good sun protection. Clothing provides the best form of protection from the sun, providing it meets the following simple guidelines;
Dark colour: Fabrics that are dark in colour, such as greens, blues and reds are prefect for sun protection as they will stop UV penetrating and will reduce any reflection onto your exposed skin.
Close weave: Fabrics that are close weave provide the best form of sun protection, as the block out most of the UVR.
Shirts: Long sleeves and collar - the style of your garment will indicate the amount of sun protection. The arms and neck are a common site for skin cancer so long sleeves and a collar will assist in reducing sun induced skin damage.
Shorts: Long loose trousers or skirts are cool and will protect your legs. Long style baggy shorts are also suitable.
- Choose a hat with a broad-brim or in a legionnaire-style so that your face, neck, and ears are protected.
Like the recommendations for clothing, you should pick a hat which is dark in colour and has a close weave. Hats can provide excellent protection for the head and face. Make sure you choose the following features:
Broad Brim: Choose a hat with a broad brim which protects your face, neck and ears.
Legionnaire: Legionnaire style hats provide great protection to the face, neck and ears, but make sure the flap covers the ears.
- Wear sunglasses to minimise your risk of eye damage from ultraviolet radiation.
Eye protection is an important component of your SunSmart routine. Sunglasses sold in Australia must conform to the Australian Standard AS1067. The style of sunglasses indicates the amount of sun protection provided. A wrap around style is best as it will reduce any UVR entering the eye from the side of the face.
- Apply a SPF30+ broad spectrum sunscreen 20 minutes before you go out in the sun.
Sunscreens are recommended as an addition to shade, clothing, hats and sunglasses for adequate sun protection. Sunscreens should not be relied on as the sole form of protection for the skin.
Do you need more information on how to be SunSmart??
For queries about skin cancer and protecting yourself from the sun, call the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20, toll free, Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
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