Men encouraged to be sun smart in new Cancer Council Victoria report

The latest Cancer Council Victoria research has found that men aren’t using enough sun protection, placing them at greater risk of developing melanoma and other cancers.

According to the 2022 Summer Sun Protection Survey (Life in Australia), more than a third of Victorian men (35 per cent) regularly use sunscreen and just over half (51 per cent) report they often or are always seeking shade to protect themselves from the sun when the ultraviolet radiation (UV) level is above 3.

With the latest research in mind, Sun Smart and the Cancer Council are encouraging men to slip on clothing, seek shade, apply SPF30, put on a hat that shades their face, ears and neck and wear sunglasses, particularly in regional areas where higher rates of melanoma are diagnosed.

Cancer Council Victoria’s Head of SunSmart, Emma Glassenbury said SunSmart’s campaign aimed to ensure men are around for their family’s future.

“Males are twice as likely to die from melanoma than women, ” Ms Glassenbury said. “We want Victorian men to protect their skin by using all five forms of sun protection.

“Just as you would protect your family, property or belongings, using sun protection including protective clothing, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen and seeking shade are the essential steps every man should take to protect his health against skin cancer and to be there for their loved ones.”

Primarily caused by over-exposure to UV, melanoma can often be prevented if people use all five forms of sun protection.

With UV radiation being out of sight and unable to be felt, Cancer Council Victoria and Sun Smart encourage the community to check their local rating and to seek sun protection at all times.

Head to sunsmart.com.au