Australians and the Sun
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Almost one of every two people who spend their lives here will develop some form of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most deadly, but the other types (basal cell and squamous cell) are not something to take lightly. Being aware of the dangers of sun exposure, and vigilant about any changes in your skin’s look and feel, are necessary for all Australians.
In New South Wales over 3,505 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year, and over 460 people die. There are some 147,653 new cases of the non-melanoma skin cancers, as well. Incidence and mortality are highest in people over 50, but occur in all age groups, and damage to skin adds up over time.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known carcinogen and is as much a potential risk as toxic chemicals or heavy machinery. Damage from UV radiation is permanent and the risk of cancer increases with additional exposure to the sun.
People who are particularly vulnerable to the sun’s ultraviolet rays are: the fair skinned people (such as those from the United Kingdom and Western Europe, who make up the largest part of the Aussie population), young people (under 35), and people using particular medications (such as Retin-A, anti-depressants, antibiotics or drugs for high blood pressure).
Sunbeds and Fake Tans: Unfortunately, many Australians still think a tan is an attractive sign of good health and fitness. In reality, a tan is a sign that your skin has been exposed to too much UV radiation and that cellular damage has occurred.
Solariums (also called sunbeds or tanning booths) are also dangerous and no one should use them, according to the Cancer Council NSW. The level of UV in solariums is up to five times as strong as the midday summer sun. Studies have shown that many solarium operators don’t comply with the voluntary codes that call for strict hygiene, maintenance for the machines, trained staff, and consent forms to be signed by the parents of customers age 15-18. Even if solariums did comply, however, they should still be strictly avoided.
Fake tans are an alternative if one still wishes to appear to be tanned, but they are not protective against skin cancer. There are now some fake tan products on the market that have sunscreen in them so that you can appear to develop a tan while being protected from the sun. Fake tanners without sunscreen should be used with a separate sunscreen. This is a viable option for those who are determined to look tanned!
Tips for Living Safely in the NSW Sun:
—Be sensible and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and eyes, even if you are the only person on the train, bus or street who is wearing a hat.—Use sunscreen, applying generously in the first place, and reapplying frequently. Even 30+ SPF does not screen out 100% of UV rays; so use a combination of methods to keep your skin protected.—Make sure your sunglasses are UV certified, and wear them.—Take along a shirt whenever you go out and put on if you are out longer than expected.—Plan ahead to avoid the sun between 11 am and 3 pm on as many days as possible.
Ultraviolet Index: There is a UV Index that forecasts the level of UV expected for various regions online at www.cancercouncil.com.au/sunsmart and which also appears in most newspaper weather forecasts. The rating system is from 1-2 which is low and ‘no protection is needed’, 3-5 moderate risk and protection is required, 6-7 high, 8-10 very high, and 11+ which is extreme, and requires extra protection and care to avoid excess exposure. However, even with a 30+ SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, UV certified sunglasses, protective clothing, and shade you will still receive some UV exposure!
No matter what the forecast is, it is sensible to simply prepare at the start of each day to be outdoors at some point, (unless you are housebound or wear a religious habit). Women can use sunscreen in moisturizers, plus in foundation and lippy, and reapply a few times during the day. Men can choose from a variety of sport or regular sunscreens that apply easily by spray, lotion, tube or roll-on and are readily absorbed and mess free. Excellent sunscreens are available at good prices, are easily carried and applied, and there is no good excuse for not using them. Learn to make it a habit to apply sunscreen as a regular part of preparing for each day.
Lastly, have your GP or dermatologist examine your skin all over for any changes, as a matter of course, every year or so. The earlier any skin cancer is found and treated, the better your chances will be.
Any questions about prevention, skin changes, or screening?: The Cancer Council NSW Help Line is staffed by nurses who can answer any question you may have about your own risk, prevention of skin cancer, screening, or to discuss options about treatments available, if diagnosed. Ring the Help Line during business hours 5 days a week on 13 11 20 or visit www.cancercouncil.com.au
Leslie McCawley BS, MPH
EA/Research Advisor
Office of Rev the Hon Dr Gordon Moyes AC MLC