Be SunSmart

Be SunSmart

Okay, so we all know we should eat less, exercise more, and give up bad habits like drinking too much and smoking. But what if you knew these changes could cut your cancer risk by more than one third? Get to know the magnificent 7 healthy habits to cut your cancer risk.

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It is important to balance the risk of skin cancer with maintaining adequate vitamin D levels. In Victoria from September to April average ultraviolet (UV) levels are generally 3 and above and this is when sun protection is required. For most Victorians only a few minutes of sun exposure each day is needed to get enough vitamin D (outside peak UV hours 10am to 3pm).   

There's nothing safe about a tan

To protect yourself:

  • Slip on sun-protective clothing.
  • Slop on SPF30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
  • Slap on a hat that protects your face, head, neck and ears.
  • Seek shade.
  • Slide on sunglasses – make sure they meet the Australian standard.

From May to August most people need two to three hours of sun exposure spread across the week for vitamin D. Sun protection generally isn't required unless you are in alpine regions, outside for extended periods or near highly reflective surfaces such as snow.

People with naturally very dark skin need three to six times the recommended exposure levels in each time period.

Tips:

  • Check out the SunSmart UV Alert each day at sunsmart.com.au, bom.gov.au/uv , on the weather page of your daily newspaper or on the SunSmart app and make sure you know when you need sun protection before heading out!
  • Check your skin regularly. See your doctor immediately if you have a sore that doesn't heal, a mole that has suddenly appeared or started to bleed, or one that has changed its size, thickness, shape or colour.  For more information on checking your skin, download our Checking for skin cancer information card [pdf 91.09kb].
  • Some Victorians are more at risk of low vitamin D. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your vitamin D levels or visit the SunSmart website's vitamin D section for further information.

If you would like further information on being SunSmart, visit the SunSmart website.