Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, it’s even known as our national cancer. Over 440,000 Australians are treated for skin cancer and unfortunately more than 2000 Australians die each year from skin cancer.
Fortunately, skin cancer is preventable. Nearly all skin cancers are directly related to your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation; this means, that when you protect your skin from the sun’s UV radiation you reduce your risk. The good news is it’s also never too late to start! Every day you protect your skin, you reduce your risk.
Sun protection is needed whenever UV is 3 or above regardless of the time of day or time of year. In NSW, the UV is high enough to damage your skin for over 10 months of the year, so make sun protection part of your daily routine.
Learn about the different types of skin cancer.
Protect yourself in five ways
Clothing that covers your shoulders, arms and legs is the one of the most effective ways to protect your skin
A SPF 50 or SPF 50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen will create a barrier between UV and your skin
Sun smart hats protect your face, ears and neck, the most common spots for skin cancer
Sunglasses that meet Australian Standard AS1067 and fit your face reduce UV exposure to your eyes.