UPDATE: Emergency sunburn cases in Victoria have surged by 14% in just one year, with 330 presentations recorded in the 2024-25 financial year, according to newly released government data. The alarming rise has prompted SunSmart to issue an urgent warning to the public: be vigilant against sunburn, even on cool or cloudy days when UV levels can still be dangerously high.
This latest data reveals that over the past 20 years, a staggering 5,672 individuals have sought emergency medical attention for severe sunburn in Victoria, highlighting a persistent public health issue. Children and young adults are particularly at risk, making up 66% of cases, with those aged 0-14, 15-19, and 20-24 years comprising a total of 3,738 presentations.
The statistics underscore the significant and lasting health impacts of sunburn, especially in childhood, which can dramatically increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. “Everyday activities can expose us to harmful UV rays, the leading cause of skin cancer,” said Emma Glassenbury, head of SunSmart. “It’s crucial to remember that sun protection is necessary whenever UV levels are 3 and above.”
The findings also revealed that 26% of Victorian adults—more than 1.3 million people—reported experiencing at least one sunburn lasting more than a day in the past year, according to the latest Victorian Population Health Survey. Notably, rural residents were found to be three times more likely to suffer from sunburn compared to their metropolitan counterparts.
Sunburn incidents are especially prevalent among young adults aged 18-24, with 29% of this group reporting one or two sunburns last year. In stark contrast, only 4% of individuals aged 75-84 reported similar instances.
Professor Victoria Mar, director of the Victorian Melanoma Service at The Alfred Hospital, emphasized the severe nature of sunburn. “Sunburn is a sign of significant trauma to the skin cells, and this damage accumulates, increasing lifetime skin cancer risk. Severe cases require medical attention,” she warned.
The story of Rhi Birch, a melanoma survivor from Melbourne, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of sun protection. “I was diagnosed with stage two melanoma after a friend noticed a spot on my back during a snorkeling trip,” she recounted. “My diagnosis was a real wake-up call; skin cancer is so common in Australia, and it’s nothing to mess around with.”
SunSmart urges everyone to take immediate action to protect their skin. “Most sunburn-related emergency presentations occur between November and February,” Glassenbury noted. “Adopt all five forms of sun protection: cover up with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat, apply sunscreen, seek shade, and wear sunglasses whenever UV levels are 3 or higher.”
As the summer season approaches, the urgency to implement sun safety measures has never been clearer. With rising temperatures and increased outdoor activities, it is essential for all Victorians to prioritize sun protection to mitigate the risks associated with harmful UV exposure.
