Antinuclear

Australians’ special cancer danger from UV radiation

Sun sense in the summer months Australian Pacific College, 14 Oct 13 http://blog.apc.edu.au/2013/10/sun-sense-in-summer-months.htmlAlthough it’s not quite summer yet, the sun is starting to get hotter as we approach the hottest part of the year here in Australia. Some of you may be used to hotter weather than this but the sun in Australia is stronger than a lot of other countries around the world as evidenced by the fact that we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world (Cancer Council Australia)……

• The majority of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight.
• Sunburn causes 95% of melanomas – the deadliest form of skin cancer.
• In Australia, almost 14% of adults, 24% of teenagers and 8% of children are sunburnt on an average summer weekend. Many people get sunburnt when they are taking part in water sports and activities at the beach or a pool, as well as gardening or having a barbecue.
• Sunburn is also common on cooler or overcast days as many people mistakenly believe UV radiation is not as strong. This is untrue – you can still be sunburnt when the temperature is cool.
• Sun exposure that doesn’t result in burning can still cause damage to skin cells and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Evidence suggests that regular exposure to UV radiation year after year can also lead to skin cancer.
• A tan is not a sign of good health or wellbeing, despite many Australians referring to a ‘healthy tan.’ Almost half of Australian adults still hold the misguided belief that a tan looks healthy……http://blog.apc.edu.au/2013/10/sun-sense-in-summer-months.html

October 17, 2013 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | General News