National Skin Cancer Action Week highlights that we need to do more to promote sun protection.
2021 marks the fortieth anniversary of the iconic Slip, Slop, Slap campaign with Sid the Seagull, and yet Australia still has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Currently two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70 every year. Around 2,000 Australians die from this disease.
Despite improvements in melanoma rates amongst Australians under the age of 40, skin cancer remains Australia’s most common cancer, the most costly and one of the most preventable. It is estimated that there have been over 15,000 deaths since the last national skin cancer awareness campaign 14 years ago.
In order to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, all Australians need to use the five forms of sun protection when the UV level is 3 or higher:
- Slip on sun protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
- Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 (or higher) sunscreen. Apply 20 minutes before going outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
- Slap on a hat – broad brim or legionnaire style to protect your face, head, neck and ears.
- Seek shade.
- Slide on sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian Standards
In order to prevent cancer, Australians need to understand the risks. When it comes to skin cancer the job’s not done until we’re all safe in the sun.
If you have any concerns, book a skin check at your nearest Fullerton Health Medical Centre.
For more information about National Skin Cancer Action Week, visit the Cancer Council website.
