Jim Callaghan: Still important to be SunSmart always

New Zealanders should stay sun-smart all year round.

I read with interest Joanne McNeill's opinion piece in Tuesday's Advocate, however I would like to clarify a few areas in the piece that are of a concern and could be potentially misleading regarding the sunscreen example that she used.

The levels of UV (ultraviolet) radiation exposure in NZ are extremely high due to our low level of air pollution compared with that of Europe. The most common cause of skin cancer is too much exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

Overexposure to UV radiation causes the skin permanent damage. Skin cancer is New Zealand's most common cancer, with melanoma the most serious type, killing more people per year than road accidents. Sunscreens have evolved into effective formulations especially made for NZ conditions. A behaviour change can take at least 15 to 20 years for it to be effective and part of a daily lifestyle.

Due to health-promoting messages, sunscreen use has increased and this is evident with the younger generation coming through - children learn by example. It is important to give people accurate health promotion messages so they can make an informed choice of the benefits of using sunscreen versus the outcome of potential skin cancer later on in life.

Sunscreen formulations are now far more effective with greater levels of UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection and without the high level of chemicals that were used previously.

The formulations are formulated based on what the consumer requests - lower chemical loading, paraben, colour and fragrance free. They are not toxic. There is no conclusive evidence to support the claim that the use of sunscreen is carcinogenic or that it has a direct effect on the sea life food chain. The residue left on the skin after application or after swimming is minimal and it can also be sweated and rubbed off.

The concern with sunscreen application is that more often than not most people do not apply the recommended amount, 30ml per average body, and then remember to consistently reapply that first amount every two hours.

Remember the summer rules: slip on a shirt, slop on some 30+SPF sunscreen, slap on a brimmed hat and wrap around some sunnies, also seek shade where possible from 10am to 4pm during September to April is recommended.

Vitamin D is important for strong bones and good health. The main way we get vitamin D is from sunlight on our skin. Therefore, a balance is needed between being SunSmart to avoid an increased risk of skin cancer and getting enough vitamin D for good health.

Most New Zealanders are at greater risk of skin damage and skin cancer, than not getting enough vitamin D. Healthy adults, who are out and about and physically active outdoors, are unlikely to lack vitamin D.

The Cancer Society recommends:

-Be SunSmart between September and April, especially between 10am and 4pm. A daily walk or some other form of outdoor physical activity in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended.

-Between May and August, some sun on your skin outdoors is important so your body can make vitamin D. A daily walk or another form of outdoor physical activity in the hours around noon, with face, arms and hands in the sun, is recommended.

-Be SunSmart at any time of the year when you are outside in the mountains or near reflective surfaces such as snow, ice and water.