The only thing that should be red this Australia Day is the tomato in your barbeque salad!
With Aussie Day just around the corner and temperatures heating up on more than just the barbie, Cancer Council is urging all Queenslanders to enjoy the day the SunSmart way!
More than half of all Queensland adults and children were sunburnt in 2014*, with only six per cent of adults taking all five recommended sun protective behaviours during summer.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift encouraged Queenslanders to enjoy the Aussie celebrations while staying as SunSmart as possible.
“Where possible, people should avoid sun exposure – especially during periods of extreme heat, at the peak of Australia Day,” Ms Clift said.
“We recommend Queenslanders abide by all five recommended sun protective behaviours – Slip on protective clothing, Slop on SPF30 or above broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on wrap-around sunnies when out and about to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
“Remember too – one form of protection is never enough.
“Keep yourself and your family cool – stay in air-conditioning, drink as much water as possible and schedule outdoor activities when the UV Index is below three.
“It’s also crucial that families apply sunscreen properly – use one teaspoon per limb, for the front and back of the trunk, face and neck, and ensure you apply 20 minutes before going outdoors.
“It also important to carry sunscreen with you when out and about, and make sure you reapply every two hours.”
Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world – around 370 skin cancers are diagnosed every day in our Sunshine State. Around 3,400 melanoma and 133,000 non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed across the state each year.
In Brisbane alone, around 1175 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, and sadly more than 100 people will die from the disease. Around 99 per cent of all skin cancer cases are caused by exposure to UV radiation.
“The good news is that skin cancer remains one of the most preventable types of cancer, which is why we need to incorporate SunSmart habits in everyday life to reduce our skin cancer risk,” Ms Clift said.
“Enjoy time with friends and family this Australia Day – the SunSmart way!”
To help you get into the ‘Straya Day spirit, Cancer Council’s SunSmart Shop has released a new green and gold triple zinc pack! You can stop by, or shop online – it’s SPF50 plus and four hours’ water resistant. Perfect for a day at the beach or by the pool.
Sun protection is required when the UV Index is 3 and above. In Queensland, the UV Index is 3 and above all year round, so Cancer Council Queensland encourages sun protection through every season.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland via Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 or on our website.
*Fifth report of the Chief Health Officer Queensland, The Health of Queenslanders Report 2014.