AS the summer months approach, Healthy North Coast is encouraging people across Mid North Coast and Northern NSW to make sun protection part of their everyday routine, to help reduce their risk of skin cancer.
The region has the highest melanoma rates in NSW, highlighting the importance of protecting skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and being aware of changes to the skin.
According to the Cancer Institute NSW, nine of the 10 local government areas (LGAs) with the highest melanoma incidence in NSW are located in the North Coast region. Ballina ranks highest, followed by Lismore, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Tweed, Kempsey and Richmond Valley.
Healthy North Coast CEO Monika Wheeler said the lead-up to summer is a timely reminder for people to take simple, practical steps to protect themselves and their families.
“The North Coast is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, particularly as the weather warms up,” Ms Wheeler said.
“But with our region experiencing the highest rates of skin cancer, it’s important that sun protection becomes part of our everyday routine.
“Simple steps like wearing sunscreen, covering up, seeking shade and wearing a hat can make a real difference in reducing exposure to harmful UV radiation.
“Let’s enjoy everything our region has to offer this summer while taking care of our skin and long-term health, and encouraging family and friends to do the same.”
The community reminder follows the recent Capability Building in Skin Cancer Early Intervention grant program from Healthy North Coast, where more than $345,000 was awarded to local general practices to strengthen early intervention for skin cancer.
Sun protection is important whenever the UV index reaches 3 or above, which can occur throughout the year in Australia. The community is encouraged to follow the five key sun protection measures:
– Slip on covering clothing
– Slop on SPF 50 or SPF50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen. Reapply every two hours or after swimming
– Slap on a broad-brimmed hat
– Seek shade
– Slide on some sunglasses.
Healthy North Coast also encourages people to become familiar with their skin and seek medical advice about new or changing spots, sores that do not heal, or lesions that look different from others.
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