Cancer Council issues warning as summer-like temperatures linger

It may be autumn but Queenslanders will have to wait a little bit longer to switch their swimming togs for warm layers, with summer-like temperatures expected to linger until April.

Cancer Council is warning locals not to be lazy about sun protection, renewing its calls for Queenslanders to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide.

Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said forecasts for both daytime and nighttime temperatures were warmer than average for this time of year.

“While some States and Territories are trading their togs for warm layers, we’ll be waiting that little bit longer for a cool change,” Ms Clift said.

“It’s important to remember that although it’s autumn, sun damage can occur just as easily as it does in summer.

“With temperatures expected to hit around 31 degrees in Brisbane over the weekend, it’s important to remember the dangers of sun exposure.

“We recommend Queenslanders abide by all five sun protective recommendations – Slip on protective clothing, Slop on minimum SPF30 broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on wrap-around sunnies when out and about.

“Sunscreen or a good hat alone isn’t enough – we need to make the effort to do all we can to protect ourselves and reduce our skin cancer risk.”

Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Around 3000 melanoma and 133,000 non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed across the state each year.

In Brisbane alone, around 1319 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year and around 117 die from the disease.

Sun protection is required when the UV Index is three or above – even on cloudy, cold and overcast days.

In Queensland, the UV Index is three and above all year round – so sun protection is required for all seasons.

More information about Cancer Council Queensland and staying SunSmart is available at cancerqld.org.au or 13 11 20.

 
ENDS

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