Media Release
Date:
Tuesday 16th March 2010
Contact:
Jane Thomas (03) 9635 5271 or 0408 567 521
Farmers targeted for skin cancer prevention as UV levels still high in Victoria
Victoria’s rural community has been urged to remain vigilant about using sun protection in
March and April, with farmers and outdoor workers at a higher risk of skin cancer.
With UV levels remaining high enough across Victoria to cause sunburn in as little as 16
minutes, SunSmart is running the skin cancer prevention and early detection campaign,
Take care of your farm's most important asset. You.
SunSmart Manager Sue Heward said sun protection is still needed outside of the peak
summer months.
“UV radiation in Victoria is at a level that can damage skin and eyes and increase the risk
of skin cancer from September to April each year,” she said.
“Our campaign is once again targeting farmers and rural outdoor workers
as research
shows that UV exposure is higher in the agriculture, forestry and fishing industries when
compared with other occupational groups.
“Previous Cancer Council research of farmers in the Wimmera and Gippsland areas
showed farmers believed they were at risk of developing skin cancer but didn’t adequately
protect themselves, particularly with sunscreen and long-sleeved shirts.
“The key is to wear SPF 30+ sunscreen, broad brimmed hats, clothing that covers as
much skin as possible and sunglasses when outdoors and wherever possible stick to
doing jobs in the shade during the peak UV period of 10am – 3pm.
“It is important to look for early signs of skin cancer. Check your skin every three months
and visit a GP if you have any concerns.”
The campaign highlights the personal experience of Les, a Victorian farmer. Les owned
and ran a farm in Kotupna before developing skin cancer.
Les never thought skin cancer would happen to him. “One day I find a small bump on my
forehead, the next day I’m getting chemo and facing months in hospital. I was forced to
sell up,” he said.
“It’s so easy to prevent skin cancer. We farmers really should make the effort to protect
ourselves. Take it from me, don’t risk losing your farm.”
‘Take care of your farm's most important asset. You’ radio and print campaign runs until the
end of March 2010. An information brochure and poster are available. For more information: