Facts
About Sunblock Australia has the highest
rate of skin cancer in the world. Almost half of all people who
have lived in Australia all their lives will develop some form
of skin cancer and around 1500 people will die every year.
Skin cancer detection doesnt need to be a chore, if you have
a partner it’s a healthy lifestyle activity that the two of you
can share – it might even be fun! Encourage him to join you as
you strip search and save each other, you will be taking positive
steps toward a health future.
Nearly all skin cancers are caused by utltraviolet (UV) radiation
found in sunlight
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer but 90-96%
of cases are treatable if caught early.
Repeated sunburn, particularly when you were a child, increases
your risk of melanoma.
Sunblock/ Sunscreen proctects against UV radiation by reducing
( not blocking) the amount of UV rays reaching your skin
Sunblock/ Sunscreen should always be used with other sun protection
measures such as:
- Spending less time in the sun when UV radiation is highest
between ( 10am-3pm)
Seeking shelter
Wearing proctective clothing, a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses.
The cancer council recommends using broad spectrum SPF 30+,
water resistant sunscreen and reapplying at least every 2hrs.
Applying sunscreen generously 20mins before going into sun.
What do the SPF numbers and broad spectrum
mean?
SPF stands for Sun protection factor The higher the SPF number,
the more protection the sunscreen provides. Sunscreen labeled
broad spectrum filter out some UVA as well as UVB radiation.
UVA and UVB both contribute to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage
and skin cancer.
Sun protection valves follow the law of diminishing returns
- SPF 10 blocks 90% UVB
- SPF 15 blocks 92% UVB
- SPF 30 blocks 97% UVB
Protect yourself in the sun
By following simple sun practices everyday, you can protect
your skin from further sun damage and reduce your risk of developing
skin cancer. Its never too late to start protecting your skin.
|