What are current Australian statistics related to sun safety?

Australia is the skin cancer capital of the world. More than 11,500 Australian men and women are diagnosed with a melanoma each year, and an estimated 434,000 people are treated for one or more non-melanoma1 skin cancers.

Is sun safety a big health problem in Australia?

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the major cause of skin cancer. UV damage also causes sunburn, tanning, premature ageing and eye damage. The good news is you can prevent damage – and skin cancer – by being SunSmart.

What percentage of Australians use sunscreen?

Recent studies had found that only about 35% of Australian women and 21% of men were regular sunscreen users. Ideally, people should apply daily, and reapply sunscreen every four hours.

What are the 5 S’s for sun safety?

A good rule of thumb for skin cancer prevention is following the 5 S’s: “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide.” The campaign, a cornerstone of Nevada Cancer Coalition’s Sun Smart Nevada program, encourages people to: Slip on a long-sleeved shirt or sun protective clothing.

Is sun safety getting better or worse in Australia?

The level of UV exposure in Australia has reduced over time, with an increased awareness of skin cancer, use of protective clothing, and the use of sunscreen.

Why is sun safety important in Queensland?

Queensland has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. However, by staying SunSmart every day you can reduce your risk. The vast majority of skin cancers, including melanoma, are caused by over-exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources, such as solariums.

Where is the highest UV in Australia?

Table 1: Australian capital city average daily maximum UV levels by month.

Location Jan June
Darwin 12 8
Brisbane 12 4
Perth 12 3
Sydney 11 2

How many Australians get sunburnt?

New data released today reveals that more than one third of South Aussies (34.2 per cent) are getting sunburnt at least once over summer. The 2019 South Australian Population Health Survey analysed South Australian sun protection habits over the 2019 summer season.

Why is sun Safety an issue in Australia?

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with two in three Australians developing some form of skin cancer before age 70. This makes sun protection very important for all Australians. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, skin damage, eye damage and skin cancer.

How effective is SunSmart?

A proven track record in preventing cancer and saving lives – it is estimated to have prevented more than 43,000 skin cancers and 1,400 deaths from the disease in Victoria between 1988 and 2011.

What is the problem with sun safety?

Too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression, and skin cancer. Even people in their twenties can develop skin cancer.