Queenslanders aged 18 to 24 aren’t getting the sun safe message.

The “Sunburn Report” released by the Queensland Institute of Medical research today is urging Queenslanders to remember to slip slop slap.

Lizzie Mulherin reports.

TRANSCRIPT

One in ten Queenslanders admit to getting sun burnt on a weekly basis.

Despite decades of anti-cancer campaigns, the Sunshine State is the melanoma capital of the world and young adults are the most at risk.

They’re seven times more likely to get sun burnt than those over the age of sixty-five.

The Sunburn Report hopes the findings will put the spotlight back on sun safety.

Dr Peter O’Rourke, QIMR Senior Statistician: “We’ve had a message in terms of health promotion out for forty to fifty years. Sunburn is still happening. So people need reminding, we need to be able to keep the message focused. We need to bring it to the attention of people.”

According to the study, the likelihood of getting sun burnt isn’t affected by a person’s socio-economic status, or even skin color.

In fact, key influencers were being in the workforce, being physically active, and not having a tertiary education.

Unsurprisingly, young tradesmen are the worst offenders.

Brodie Ireland, Carpenter: “I know a few older guys as well who sort of let it go too long and end up getting multiple cut out of their backs when they’re a bit older. But I’ve had a few young fellas as well get them cut out quite regularly.”

The Queensland Cancer Council says sun safety shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Katie Clift, Cancer Council Queensland Spokesperson: “It is really important for Queenslander’s to be vigilant, to take care of their skin, and not to overestimate and just think it’s all going to be fine and it’s all good but make sure they do everything they can to reduce their risk of skin cancer.”

Queensland Health is working to target high-risk groups.

It’s hoping to reinforce the slip slap slap message so Queensland loses its unwanted title of skin cancer capital.

Lizzie Mulherin, Qut News.