SunSmart Facts

• Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.
• Over 1,600 Australians die from skin cancer each year, with at least two in three Australians being diagnosed with skin cancer before 70 years of age.
• In young people aged 12-24 years, melanoma is the most common cancer, with more than double the number of cases of any other kind of cancer.
• Adolescence and childhood are critical periods during which sun exposure is more likely to contribute to skin cancer in later life.

Be Safe Around the Water
Many Victorians, particularly teenagers, get sunburnt when near water. The beach and community or backyard pools are major hot spots for sunburn.

The Cancer Council Australia recommends that you use sun protection whenever the SunSmart UV Alert indicates the UV Index is at 3 or above. At that level UV radiation can damage your skin and eyes and lead to skin cancer.

In Victoria from September to April, UV radiation levels are usually 3 and above for most of the day.

Particular care should be taken from 10 am to 2 pm (11 am to 3 pm daylight saving time) when UV radiation levels are highest.

The SunSmart UV Alert is your daily guide to sun protection - it tells you what the UV levels are for the day and the times sun protection is needed. You can access the SunSmart UV Alert in the weather section of your daily newspaper or visit www.bom.gov.au/weather/uv.
Remember to use these five steps together when the SunSmart UV Alert indicates the UV Index is at 3 or above.

1. Slip on some sun-protective clothing - that covers as much skin as possible.
2. Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen - make sure it is broad spectrum and water-resistant. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
3. Slap on a hat - that protects your face, head, neck and ears.
4. Seek shade.
5. Slide on some sunglasses - make sure they meet Australian Standards.

For more information visit www.sunsmart.com.au.