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Skin cancer prevention

Skin cancer prevention. Photo by Piotr Fabijanski


Farmers and agricultural workers have a high risk of skin cancer because they usually work outdoors. Protect yourself from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer, by wearing a broad brimmed hat, sunglasses, long sleeved shirts, long pants and sunscreen. Avoid working outdoors in the middle of the day if possible when ultraviolet rays are at their highest.

Farmers are also at risk of eye damage from too much sunlight while working long hours outdoors. Always wear sunglasses fitted with side arms and sun hats to protect your eyes and to reduce the risk of facial skin cancers.

You also have a duty to protect any workers from the effects of the sun.
 

Skin cancer is a preventable disease and the majority of skin cancers are treatable if detected early. Regular skin checks should help you detect any suspicious lumps or spots as soon as they develop. Pay particular attention to your arms, legs, face, neck, back, shoulders and the back of your hands. Prevention involves a combination of five simple steps: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide.
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Fast facts: 
Skin cancer prevention
  • Farmers and agricultural workers have a high risk of developing skin cancer.
  • When the UV index is predicted to be 3 or above, protect yourself from the sun with hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, shade and clothing.
  • Share tasks so the same person is not always working outdoors.
  • Have regular skin checks so any skin cancers can be detected early.
     

 Find out more about skin cancer prevention


Last reviewed: 
10-August-2011

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National Centre for Farmer Health in partnership with Western District Health Service Deakin University
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