Each year during the hot summer months, CANSA steps up its skin cancer awareness communication through its SunSmart Campaign, to remind South Africans of the dangers of over-exposure to the sun. Running from mid-November to January, the campaign includes beach, workplace and school activations, as well as sharing education online on CANSA’s platforms.
CANSA reminds all South Africans to be SunSmart throughout the year and especially during summer, as skin cancer remains one of the most common cancers. South Africa has the second highest incidence of skin cancer in the world after Australia, and in particular one of the highest incidences of melanoma worldwide, as far as Caucasians are concerned. At least 20 000 South Africans are diagnosed annually with non-melanoma skin cancers, and approximately 1 500 are diagnosed with melanoma.
It is important to take note of the fact that everyone, regardless of racial or ethnic group, is at risk of getting skin cancer. Although people with darker skins are less susceptible, because their skin contains more natural melanin that protects against sun damage, everyone is at risk from the harsh African sun.
Just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles a person’s chances of developing melanoma later in life. Children should not be getting sunburned at any age, especially since there are a range of very effective sun protection methods that can be used. Minimise time outside during summer when UV levels are at their strongest – between 10am and 3pm. Parents and guardians need to be extra vigilant about sun protection for their infants and toddlers at all times.
For more information about how to protect your family from the harmful effects of the sun, visit www.cansa.org.za.