Slip, Slop, Slap is still important………. decades on - it’s still the same sun!
As we come to the end of National Skin Cancer Action Week and finally some lovely spring weather, Cancer Council ACT is urging Canberrans to remember that this is the perfect time for old and young alike, to brush up on their sun protection habits as data continues to show one in four 25-44 year olds are still getting sunburnt on summer weekends.
The Slip, Slop Slap (and now including Seek and Slide) message has been around for decades and this year, Sid Seagull will be back reminding all to protect themselves when out in the sun. It’s still the same sun and it still causes skin damage.
This Saturday, Cancer Council ACT will be Lakeside near Queen Elizabeth Terrace, encouraging Canberrans to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide when outdoors and educating people how to check the current UV level so as to know when sun protection is required.
Cancer Council ACT CEO, Sandra Turner, says that sun protection when young and right through into older age, can help prevent skin damage and the risk of skin damage both in the short and long term.
“We have seen great progress in teaching pre-school and primary school students about the harmful effects associated with too much sun exposure, and it’s time for all Canberrans to heed the same messages and role model good sun protective behaviour,” said Ms Turner.
Canberra dermatologist Andrew Miller agrees. Dr Miller says that with people spending less time outdoors this last summer because of bushfire smoke and the COVID-19 lockdown, he is seeing less people presenting with acute sun damage (solar keratosis) in recent months.
“We know that sun protection works and it’s important people continue to protect themselves throughout their lifetime to help prevent skin cancer. It’s a simple process to protect yourself and can prevent significant skin problems in the future,” Dr Miller said.
Remember; Slip on some protective clothing, Slop on some sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade and Slide on some sunnies for the best sun protection.
WHO: Cancer Council ACT.
WHAT: National Skin Cancer Action Week - educating the community how to be SunSmart.
WHY: To raise awareness about the importance of good skin protection in the sun.
WHERE: Lake Burley Griffen – Queen Elizabeth Terrace (Lakeside).
WHEN: Saturday 21st November 11am – 3pm.
Media Contact: Sandra Turner, CEO, Cancer Council ACT – M: 0414 695 632.