Facing the sun in Western Australia? A new campaign is urging you to protect yourself from a serious threat: skin cancer. Funded by the Cook Government and spearheaded by Cancer Council WA, this initiative aims to arm Western Australians with the knowledge they need to stay safe under the harsh summer sun.
Did you know that melanoma is one of the most prevalent cancers affecting people in Western Australia? The state experiences some of the highest levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation globally, making residents particularly vulnerable.
Last year, a staggering 1,599 melanoma cases were diagnosed in WA, and tragically, 145 lives were lost. Two in three Australians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
The 'If you could see UV' campaign highlights the importance of sun protection through five simple steps:
- Slip on protective clothing.
- Slop on SPF50 or SPF50+ sunscreen.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade.
- Slide on sunglasses.
The sun emits various types of radiation, including visible light, infrared radiation (heat), and UV radiation. And this is the part most people miss... Your skin cells remember every instance of UV exposure you receive.
The campaign cleverly uses images of dangerous arrows to represent invisible UV rays, emphasizing their potential to damage your DNA. You'll see billboards in 16 prominent locations across Perth, including Yagan Square and Wellington Street, plus a custom bus shelter at Cottesloe Beach.
But here's where it gets controversial... Is this enough?
The campaign also utilizes radio, audio platforms, and social media, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Reddit, and Google search and display.
Running until February 28, 2026, the campaign targets Western Australians aged 18 to 45 during the late spring and summer months when UV radiation is most intense.
The SunSmart Global UV app offers real-time UV alerts and personalized sun protection advice. Available for free from the App Store, it allows you to search any WA suburb to find the local UV index and recommended sun avoidance times. Remember, sun protection is essential when the UV index is above 3.
Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton emphasizes that skin cancer is largely preventable with the right precautions. The Cook Government encourages healthy, active lifestyles while promoting SunSmart practices when the UV index is 3 or higher.
The UV Index is a valuable tool for understanding when to protect yourself from UV radiation.
What do you think? Are these measures sufficient to protect Western Australians from the sun's harmful rays? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
