Be sun smart and consider incidental UV damage

Australia holds the unfortunate title of the skin cancer capital of the world, with over 19,000 cases of melanoma diagnosed each year. And while we know to “slip, slop, slap” at the beach, incidental sun exposure—the kind you get while running errands, driving, or walking to lunch—often goes unnoticed, silently increasing your lifetime risk of skin cancer.

Did You Know?
Even brief sun exposure adds up. Alarming stats show:

  • 60% of Australians spend more than 15 minutes outdoors during peak UV hours weekly.
  • 6% reported sunburn just last week, proving everyday habits leave us unprotected 【1】
  • Young adults (15–24) are the most vulnerable, with over 20% seeking a tan in the past year【1】.

Your Skin’s Secret Weapon: Daily Sun Protection

The good news? Skin cancer is largely preventable with a few simple daily habits. Don’t wait for your next beach day—integrate sun safety into your routine like brushing your teeth. Here’s how:
  1. Sunscreen First, Always
    Use SPF 50+ every morning, even if it’s cloudy. Focus on exposed areas like your face, neck, and arms.
  2. Carry Your Sun Kit
    Keep sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses in your bag or car. You’ll thank yourself for those “oops, I forgot!” moments.
  3. Dress Smart
    Wear UV-protective, lightweight clothing that covers your skin—perfect for Australia’s sunny climate.
  4. Seek Shade
    Plan your outdoor time wisely and avoid peak UV hours (10 AM–3 PM). If you’re outside, find shelter under a tree, umbrella, or awning.
  5. Track UV Levels
    Download a UV index app or check the Bureau of Meteorology. Any UV index above 3 calls for protection—even when it’s overcast【2】

 

Why It’s Time to Take Action

More than half of Australians neglect basic protective measures like hats, sunglasses, or seeking shad【2】. This puts our skin—and lives—at unnecessary risk. With a few small changes, you can reduce your lifetime risk of skin cancer dramatically.
Remember: “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide” isn’t just for beachgoers—it’s for everyday Australians.

Your Health, Your Responsibility

Every quick trip outside counts. Whether you’re walking to work, grabbing groceries, or watching the kids play sport, make sun protection second nature. Small, consistent habits can save your skin—and your life.
For more sun safety tips, visit the Cancer Council Australia or track your local UV levels through the Bureau of Meteorology【8】【9】.

Stay sun smart everyone!

 

References

  1. 7 insights into sun protection behaviours in Australia from new ABS data: 7 insights into sun protection behaviours in Australia from new ABS data | Australian Bureau of Statistics

  2. Cancer Council: UV Index | Cancer Council

 

If you want to learn more about skin cancer prevention, visit our other resources