UPDATE: New government records reveal a concerning surge in sunburn cases across Victoria, with 330 emergency department presentations reported in the 2024-25 financial year. This marks a significant 14% increase from the 289 cases recorded the previous year. As summer approaches, authorities are urging the community to prioritize sun safety.
The latest data from Victoria’s Department of Health shows that over the past 20 years, a staggering 5,672 individuals have required emergency medical attention for sunburn. Alarmingly, children and young adults represent the majority of these cases, with those aged 0-24 accounting for 66% of total hospital presentations, or 3,738 cases.
SunSmart Head Emma Glassenbury stressed the importance of vigilance against harmful UV exposure, which can lead to severe skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. “People often underestimate sunburn risk in everyday settings,” she stated. “UV protection is essential whenever we’re outdoors, even on cloudy days.”
The urgency of this issue is heightened by the latest findings from the Victorian Population Health Survey, revealing that 26% of Victorian adults—over 1.3 million individuals—experienced at least one episode of red and tender sunburn lasting a day or more in the past year.
Data indicates that rural Victorians are particularly at risk, being three times more likely to suffer from sunburn than those in metropolitan areas. The survey highlighted that young adults aged 18-24 are the most affected group, with 29% reporting one or two sunburns in the previous year.
Professor Victoria Mar, Director of the Victorian Melanoma Service at The Alfred Hospital, emphasized the cumulative damage caused by sunburn. “This trauma to skin cells significantly increases lifetime skin cancer risk,” she explained. “Severe cases should seek immediate medical attention.”
Survivor Rhi Birch, 43, shared her own harrowing experience with melanoma, a stark reminder of the consequences of sun exposure. “I was diagnosed with stage two melanoma after a friend spotted a concerning spot on my back during a snorkeling trip,” she recounted. “It’s a wake-up call; skin cancer is prevalent in Australia, and sun protection is crucial.”
As Victoria prepares for the peak sunburn season from November to February, Glassenbury urged residents to adopt comprehensive sun safety measures. “Utilize all five forms of protection: cover up with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat, apply sunscreen, seek shade, and wear sunglasses when UV levels are 3 or above,” she advised.
With these alarming statistics and personal stories, the message is clear: sun safety cannot be taken lightly. Residents are encouraged to take immediate action to protect themselves and their families from the harmful effects of UV exposure. Share this vital information widely to raise awareness and prevent further sunburn incidents this summer.
