Did you know the Far North Coast area has the highest rate of melanoma in NSW?
Here’s how you can stay safe this summer!
Australia has the highest rates of melanoma and other skin cancer in the world, so how can you and the family enjoy your summer safely? Cancer Council NSW’s Yonit Kittay has answered commonly asked questions when it comes to sun protection to help you and your loved ones protect yourselves this summer.
- Can clothing protect me and my family from the sun? Yes – When choosing clothes to protect your skin from Ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage, consider the clothing’s style, fabric, colour and UPF rating. And don’t forget about closed shoes for your feet!
- Is sunscreen enough to protect me from the sun? Sunscreen is not armour; it filters rather than blocking Ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is recommended to use all five methods of sun protection by; slipping on protective clothing, slopping on sunscreen that is SPF30 or above, slapping on a wide brimmed hat, seeking shade, and sliding on some sunglasses.
- Is sunscreen safe to use every day? Sunscreen is safe and can be worn every day! All sunscreens are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration which has some of the highest standards in the world to ensure products are safe and of a high quality.
- Will I still get enough vitamin D if I am wearing sunscreen? You will! Studies have shown that sunscreen has minimal impact on vitamin D levels.
- What is an easy way to ensure my family and I are safe in the sun this summer? Shade! Good-quality shade can reduce UV exposure by up to 75%. Think picnics under a shady tree, pick playgrounds or skate parks with trees, shade sails or covers that provide shade over play equipment, take bushwalks along shaded walking tracks and seek out shade trees on grassed areas above the beach to enjoy while out of the water.
To find out more on how you can keep safe in the sun, visit www.sunsmartnsw.com.au
Visit the skin cancer Healthpathways for more:
www.manc.communityhealthpathways.org/13574.htm
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