Sunsmart

Skin cancer is by far the most commonly diagnosed cancer in New Zealand

Most skin cancers are preventable
90% of skin cancer is caused by over exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UVR)
The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Of the three, melanoma is the most serious.
New Zealand has one of the highest melanoma death rates in the world. Melanoma is the most common cancer in 20 to 40 year olds.
Excessive exposure to UVR before the age of 20 increases the risk of developing melanoma later in life.

Be SunSmart "Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap".
Avoid sunburn.
Don’t let your children get sunburnt.
In the New Zealand context, sun protection is advisable during the peak UVR period, which is between the start of September and end of March, especially between 11am and 4pm
Sunscreen should be the last line of defence – also wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses; keep in the shade whenever possible and avoid the peak UVR period between 11am and 4pm.
There is no such thing as a ‘safe’ tan – any change in the colour of the skin is a sign that damage has taken place.
All types of sunburn, whether serious or mild, can cause permanent and irreversible skin damage and lay the groundwork for skin cancer in later life.
During the summer months, adequate vitamin D levels can potentially be achieved through sun exposure received during typical outdoor activities outside of peak UVR times.
Avoid the use of indoor solaria as the amount of UVR may be five times that of the midday sun