Download the Fact Sheets

Staying informed is your greatest defence against the risk of developing skin cancer. So get the lowdown right here on everything you need to know with our hard-hitting factsheets.

Be warned: the facts are staggering. But you'll find advice on the best steps to take to protect your skin now and in the future.

Factsheet 1: Melanoma

Australia has the highest rate of melanoma in the world. So get the full story on this deadly skin cancer - how and where it can develop and who's at greatest risk. Also keep a look out for the warning signs using the A.B.C.D.E. rule of early detection.

Melanoma (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 2: Solariums

Lift the lid on sun beds and see tanning for what it really is. Get the facts on how UV radiation affects the skin and body's immune system, and how it can cause skin cancer. Plus, see the regulatory guidelines solariums may not tell you about.

Solariums (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 3: Sun protection

How does the sun damage your skin? Discover the real facts about sun exposure, the affect of UV radiation over time, and how it can lead to skin cancer. What's more, get on the right track to protecting your skin properly using our five simple steps.

Sun protection (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 4: Sunscreen

Take a closer look at how sunscreen works to protect your skin. Get the facts on the different types of sunscreens, SPF ratings, UVA and UVB radiation. And most importantly, learn how to pick the best sunscreen for your skin type and lifestyle.

Sunscreen (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 5: Fake tans

Understand how fake tans work and why a fake tan does not provide any protection against UV radiation and skin cancer.

Fake tans (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 6: Vitamin D

What is the most important source of Vitamin D? Understand the Australian climate and how much sun exposure you really need to get enough Vitamin D.

Vitamin D (PDF 181KB)

Factsheet 7: UV Index

Understand what influences the level of ultraviolet radiation and why you can get burnt on a cloudy day. Make use of the UV Index to know what time of day ultraviolet radiation is strongest.

UV Index (PDF 181KB)

Related links

There's a range of other websites you may also find useful.
World Health Organization: Sunbeds, tanning and UV exposure
World Health Organization: Solar ultraviolet radiation: Global burden of disease from solar ultraviolet radiation