SunSmart

Be SunSmart for good health and wellbeing

Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. This is largely due to our climate, that many Australians have  fair skin un suited to harsh UV conditions and our love of the great outdoors.

Safe sun exposure is also required for maintaining adequate vitamin D levels.

To be SunSmart Cancer Council Tasmania recommends:

From mid-September to mid-April adopt a combination of sun protection measures when the UV index is 3 and above. Even on cool or cloudy days, UV radiation can be strong enough to damage the skin.  Avoid any sun exposure when the UV Index is 8 and above.

From  mid-April to mid-September sun protection is not required unless UV Index is 3 or above, you are in an alpine region, near highly reflective surfaces or are experiencing prolonged sun exposure.

Safe Sun: A year round approach for vitamin D

Vitamin D is a hormone produced in the body when the skin is exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight. Vitamin D is required for optimal muscle and bone health; vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteoporosis and influences neuromuscular function (strength and balance).

Low vitamin D has also been linked with the onset of multiple sclerosis, colorectal cancer, type 1 diabetes, heart diseases and tuberculosis. While more research is needed to establish a definite link, this indicates vitamin D importance in overall health.

In Tasmania up to 67% of adults and teenagers are vitamin D deficient during winter and spring and 33% during the summer and autumn. There is little or no data for children. However, our increasing choice for indoor recreational activities mean we are getting outside less often, so there is a likelihood of deficiencies in children.

Cancer Council Tasmania recommends a year round approach to safe UV exposure to receive sufficient vitamin D for good health and wellbeing; but to also ensure skin is protected from sunburn and the risk of skin cancer at times.

SunProtection is recommended when the UV Index is 3 or above or in alpine areas, near highly reflective surfaces or if outside for extended periods of time in low UV.

See the vitamin D Factsheet for more information:

Short Version

Long Version

 Cancer Council Tasmania's SunSmart Program aims to assist the Tasmanian community to get the latest information on safe sun exposure and to implement measures to actively encourage behaviour that minimises skin damage and skin cancer risk.

SunSmart Resources

SunSmart Early Childhood Booklet