One Severe Sunburn More Than Doubles A Child’s Skin Cancer Risk – Cancer Council Queensland’s Urges Sun Protection

January 30, 2025

As we head into the warmer months, Cancer Council Queensland is urging parents, educators, and community leaders to be proactive in protecting children from the harmful effects of UV radiation. New research reveals that a single severe sunburn in childhood can more than double a person’s risk of developing melanoma by age 39. With this in mind, the organisation is calling on not-for-profit early learning centres, schools, sports clubs, and community groups across Queensland to apply for free sun-safe marquees through its Portable Shade Project.

The Hidden Dangers of Childhood Sunburn

The findings, based on research from the Australian National University, are a stark reminder of just how critical it is to safeguard young skin from sun exposure. In Queensland, where UV levels are 3 and above all year round, it’s easy to forget just how quickly children can burn. In fact, sunburn can occur in less than 10 minutes in these conditions. Even one severe burn before the age of 20 significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinomas (by 150%) and some basal cell carcinomas (by 160%).

As Sharyn Chin Fat, Cancer Council Queensland’s Head of Prevention and Early Detection, explains, “We know UV exposure during the first 18 years of life is the most critical risk factor for skin cancer later in life. The cumulative damage from sunburns adds up over time, and it’s especially important to start sun-safe habits early to protect against lifelong skin cancer risks.”

Cancer Council’s Portable Shade Project

The Portable Shade Project is Cancer Council Queensland’s solution to providing effective sun protection to children in community spaces. Through the program, eligible not-for-profit early learning centres, schools, and sports and community groups can apply for free shade marquees and sun protective walls that offer vital protection from the harmful effects of UV rays.

In the past year alone, Cancer Council Queensland has supplied 414 marquees and sun protection walls, directly protecting over 124,000 children across the state. The initiative is part of the organisation’s ongoing commitment to promoting skin cancer prevention and raising awareness about the risks associated with unprotected sun exposure.

“We want to ensure children can enjoy outdoor activities in a safe environment,” says Chin Fat. “By providing shade, we not only help keep children cool and comfortable but also significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer later in life.”

Apply for a Sun-Safe Marquee

Cancer Council Queensland encourages all eligible organisations to apply for a free sun-safe marquee to support sun protection in their communities. Marquees and sun protective walls are available to not-for-profit groups across Queensland, and applications for 2025 are now open.

The program is designed to help local groups provide a safe, sun-protected environment for children during outdoor events, sports, and daily activities. Whether it’s for a school carnival, sporting event, or a community fair, these marquees provide crucial protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

To apply for your free sun-safe marquee or to learn more about the Portable Shade Project, visit Cancer Council Queensland’s website and complete the online application.

Why Sun Safety is So Critical

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia, and Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Yet it remains largely preventable. Simple steps, like seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly, can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Sharyn Chin Fat adds, “By encouraging sun-safe practices in childhood, we can reduce the long-term risks of skin cancer, ensuring that future generations are better protected from the sun’s harmful rays.”

This summer, let’s work together to protect Queensland’s children from the dangers of the sun. Apply for a sun-safe marquee today and help safeguard the health of the next generation.

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