Gippslanders are being urged to take sun protection more seriously as the warmer weather arrives and we spend more time outdoors.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness together with the Minister for Education, Jason Clare.
“Australia has the highest per capita rates of melanoma, and it’s largely preventable if we take action to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays and build infrastructure that provides more shade in public places such as parks and playgrounds,” Mr Chester said.
“This week, the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN) hosted a barbecue at Parliament House, bringing together melanoma and skin cancer patients, community organisations, clinicians, researchers, industry, special guests, and 2024 Australians of the Year Professor Georgina Long AO and Professor Richard Scolyer AO.
“The event showcased the important work that’s underway by clinicians, researchers and community organisations across Australia to reduce the burden of the disease, with parliamentarians, including myself, undergoing skin checks and engaging in discussions on how best to protect our skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer.”
Skin cancer is Australia’s national cancer, with overexposure to ultraviolet light causing 95% of melanomas.
As we head into summer, when ultraviolet radiation is greatest, Mr Chester is urging Gippslanders to protect their skin by following the five Sun Safe Rules.
“Slip on sun-protective clothing that covers your arms, legs, shoulders, and back,” Mr Chester said.
“Slop on a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50+. Slap on a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, head, neck, and ears. Seek shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Slide on wrap-around sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard.”
