Dark Glasses and A Shady Deal
AMA President, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, urged Aussie sun lovers to opt for some shade this summer.
Dr Haikerwal said Australians have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world with over 1300 Australians dying from this almost totally preventable disease annually.
"Skin cancers account for just over 80 per cent of all new cancers diagnosed each year in Australia," Dr Haikerwal said.
"Every year, doctors remove around 720,000 lesions, suspected of being skin cancer, from the skin of Australians.
"Everyone, regardless of their skin colour, is at risk of skin cancer.
"In Australia, sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes on a fine January day.
"So slap on generous lashings of broad-spectrum sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors to give protective elements time to bond to your skin - and recharge the application throughout the day.
"Most Australians apply too little sunscreen. This results in sunscreen users achieving an SPF of between 50-80 per cent less than that specified on the product label.
"Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the invisible killer. You can't see it and you can't feel it. High temperatures are not an indication of UV radiation," Dr Haikerwal said.
The Bureau of Meteorology issues the SunSmart UV Alert when the UV index is forecast to reach 3 or above.
"This is when skin damage and particularly sunburn can occur and the risk of skin cancer increases, so sun protection is required," Dr Haikerwal said.
In keeping with Cancer Council recommendations the AMA suggests:
- Slip on protective clothing that covers your arms and legs as well as your body
- Slop on SPF30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen. Sunscreen should not be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
- Slap on a broad brimmed hat that shades your face and neck
- Wrap on wrap-around sunglasses and
- Seek out shade
"Combinations of sun protection measures keep you safe: don't rely on just one. The message is an oldy but a goody," Dr Haikerwal said.
For further comment contact Dr Haikerwal.
30 December 2005
CONTACT: Dr Mukesh Haikerwal 0407 599 332
Judith Tokley 0408 824 306