The Paper Clinic: how to protect yourself from the sun.

Michael, Callum and I are very excited to be bringing you a fortnightly word over the coming months. If you have any questions or comments throw some feedback at us: busseltonrcsstudents@gmail.com.

In the wake of a very successful 20th Busselton Jetty Swim, this week’s instalment takes on something important to all beach-goers, sun protection.

Skin cancers other than melanoma are the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia, with over two per cent of the population treated for these conditions each year, usually through surgical removal or cryotherapy.

That’s over 25 times the number of people treated for bowel cancer in the same year.

When you add melanoma to the picture, affecting over 7000 men and 5000 women in Australia in 2012, it’s no wonder the Banana Boat baby sings about sunscreen so gleefully.

UV rays (A and B) are the major culprits, contributing to sunburn, skin cancer, photoaging and cataract formation. Being sun smart is the best solution, slip, slop, slap – it’s as simple as that.

Absorbent sunscreen chemicals protect against UV rays, and reflectants, like zinc, physically block the entire solar spectrum.

A higher SPF means more UVB radiation is blocked out at any time, but doesn’t change how long your sunscreen lasts for.

So 15 minutes before you go into the sun, apply at least SPF 30+ and reapply after physical activity, when you get out of the water, or every 2 hours, whichever is sooner.

Sunglasses are important in protecting your eyes, and taking to the shade is good for your skin and thermometer.

So take care of your eyes and skin, so we can see you in town rather than with the docs.

Keep well, and don’t be a stranger if you see us around.