New recommendations published this week by national peak health bodies provide clearer and simpler advice to Australians on how to balance sun protection to reduce skin cancer risk, while maintaining healthy vitamin D.
The recommendations were jointly published by Cancer Council, the Australasian College of Dermatologists, the Australian and New Zealand Bone and Mineral Society, Osteoporosis Australia and the Endocrine Society of Australia.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said the experts agreed that adequate vitamin D can be obtained without risk of harmful UV exposure.
“The majority of Queenslanders only need a few minutes of sun exposure on most days, even in winter, for sufficient levels of vitamin D,” Ms Clift said.
“This exposure should occur when the UV Index level is below three, even on cooler and cloudier days.
“Exposure to harmful UV radiation when the UV Index level is three or above can significantly increase a person’s risk of skin cancer.
“Queenslanders only need a small amount of sun exposure to receive adequate vitamin D, and most people get it through typical outdoor day-to-day activities.
“Just five or six minutes of sunshine, when the UV Index is below three, is adequate exposure to maintain healthy vitamin D levels – hanging your clothes on the washing line or walking to your mailbox, for example.
“It’s important for Queenslanders to prioritise sun safety and ensure full sun protection when outdoors, and the UV Index level is three or above – which it is all year round in Queensland.
“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 to best reduce your risk of skin cancer.”
The recommendations contain specific guidance for people considered at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, including Australians with naturally very dark skin, the frail and/or elderly, and people who are chronically ill or institutionalised and live largely indoors, are on particular medications, or cover up for religious or cultural reasons.
Queenslanders with any questions about vitamin D intake should contact their GP.
A full copy of the recommendations can be found at cancer.org.au/vitamindposition.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.
ENDS
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Executive Manager,
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Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5372
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