Australia, New Zealand Split Sun Guidelines Into 3 Skin-Type Groups as Melanoma Cases Top 20,000
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Aug 9
Australia, New Zealand Split Sun Guidelines Into 3 Skin-Type Groups as Melanoma Cases Top 20,000
2 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Aug 9
Summary
Australia and New Zealand updated sunshine guidance in 2024 to divide people into three skin-type and skin-cancer-risk groups, replacing one-size-fits-all advice with personalized exposure recommendations.
Experts say the shift reflects two realities: short, regular midday exposure helps vitamin D production and may support cardiovascular, immune, sleep and cognitive health, while prolonged unprotected exposure still drives skin cancer risk.
Light-skinned people may need only a few minutes on most days, while one study found dark brown skin in a UK spring or summer needed about 25 minutes at midday to make adequate vitamin D.
The caution remains stark: UK melanoma diagnoses have risen above 20,000 a year for the first time, and about 112,000 invasive melanoma cases are expected in the US this year.
Researchers also warn climate change is lengthening hot, high-UV seasons, increasing exposure risks even in regions less accustomed to hats, protective clothing and sunscreen.