Be SunSmart

Australia is one of the skin cancer capitals of the world. Two in three Australians will develop skin cancer before the age of 70, and in 2013, 2,209 Australians died from melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. This is largely due to high UV levels experienced in Australia; home to a population with predominantly fair skin and a love of the great outdoors.


Always avoid sunburn and for best protection use a combination of these five steps when UV is 3 or above:

  1. SLIP on some sun-protective clothing – that covers as much skin as possible
  2. SLOP on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30+ (or greater) sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
  3. SLAP on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears
  4. Seek shade
  5. SLIDE on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards

Skin cancer

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. At least 2 in 3 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70.

Learn more

Vitamin D

Vitamin D forms in the body when skin is exposed to UV from sunlight. We need vitamin D to maintain good health and to keep bones and muscles strong and healthy.

Learn more

UV (Ultraviolet Radiation)

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and other sources, such as solariums, is the major cause of skin cancer.

Learn More

Early Childhood Program

SunSmart recommends that all early childhood education and care services and schools implement a SunSmart policy to ensure a healthy UV exposure balance.

Learn More

Primary School Program

SunSmart recommends that all early childhood education and care services and schools implement a SunSmart policy to ensure a healthy UV exposure balance.

Learn More

Secondary School Program

Sun exposure in adolescence greatly increases the chances of developing skin cancer later in life.

Learn more

Sporting Clubs and Events

Many events and sporting matches are held at a time of the year and time of day when UV levels are high enough to cause skin and eye damage. It is important to plan ahead, be prepared to protect yourself .

Learn more

Workplaces

Some simple measures in the workplace can ensure you meet OHS requirements, help minimise the risk of skin cancer amongst staff and improve their well being.

Learn more

Being SunSmart in Tasmania

Sun protection by season, vitamin D, skin cancer and UV information are all covered off in this resource developed here in Tasmania for our local conditions.

 

Learn more