Summer Sun Care in Brisbane

Family Plus Medical Practice | Aspley

Protecting Your Family from the Harsh Australian Sun

Brisbane, with its subtropical climate, experiences long, hot summers, making sun protection a crucial aspect of daily life. The strong Australian sun can pose significant health risks, including skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the country. This article will delve into the importance of summer sun care and safety, the risks associated with excessive sun exposure, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of the sun.

Understanding the Risks

The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the DNA in skin cells. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. There are two main types of UV radiation:

  • UVA: This type of radiation penetrates deeper into the skin, contributing to premature aging and long-term skin damage.
  • UVB: While UVB rays are responsible for sunburns, they also play a role in skin cancer development.

Skin Cancer: A Serious Threat

Skin cancer is a serious health concern in Australia, with a high incidence rate. The most common types of skin cancer include:

  • Basal cell carcinoma: The most common type of skin cancer, usually appearing as a raised, pearly or waxy bump.
  • Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of cancer can appear as a flat, scaly patch or a raised firm lump.
  • Melanoma: The most serious type of skin cancer, often developing from a mole or appearing as a new, unusual spot on the skin.

Regular Screening and Mole Checks

Early detection is key in the prevention and treatment of skin cancer. It’s essential to conduct regular self-exams and schedule appointments with your doctor for professional skin checks. Look for any changes in the size, shape, colour, or texture of moles or other skin lesions. If you notice any suspicious changes, consult your doctor immediately.

Sun Protection Tips

Here are some practical tips to help you protect yourself and your family from the sun’s harmful rays:

  1. Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide: This simple mnemonic helps you remember the five essential sun protection steps:
  1. Slip on a shirt.
  2. Slop on sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.
  3. Slap on a hat.
  4. Seek shade when possible.
  5. Slide on sunglasses.
  1. Choose the Right Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.  
  2. Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up with lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics. Choose a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, neck, and ears.
  3. Seek Shade: Whenever possible, seek shade during peak sun hours (usually between 11 am and 3 pm).
  4. Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
  5. Be Sun Smart at the Beach: Set up a shade umbrella, apply sunscreen generously, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  6. Educate Your Children: Teach your children about sun safety from a young age. Make sun protection a part of your daily routine.

Remember: Sun damage can occur even on cloudy days. It’s important to be vigilant about summer sun care and protection all year round. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer and enjoy the beautiful Brisbane summers safely.

For more information about summer sun care or to schedule a skin check, please contact Family Plus Medical Practice in Aspley.

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