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News18
7 days ago
- Health
- News18
Why Indians Still Don't Take Sunscreen Seriously—Despite the Science
A well-formulated sunscreen should include both physical and chemical blockers—ingredients that protect against UVA, UVB, High Energy Visible Light, and blue light that damage skin In India, the average skincare routine may include a moisturiser, a face wash, and maybe a serum. But sunscreen? For most Indians, sunscreen remains a cosmetic add-on, something associated with beach vacations or hot summers—not a daily health essential. This mindset needs urgent change, because science tells a different story. Studies and dermatologists advocate that sunscreen isn't cosmetic—it's preventive care. Multiple rigorous scientific studies have established that regular sunscreen use is one of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer and premature skin ageing. What Does Data Tell Us? The landmark Nambour trial in Australia, one of the largest and longest-running randomised controlled trials on this subject, demonstrated that daily sunscreen use resulted in a 40 per cent reduction in squamous cell carcinoma and, more strikingly, a 73 per cent reduction in invasive melanoma over long-term follow-up. Another systematic review published in 2024 reaffirms these findings, showing strong evidence for sunscreen's role in reducing the risk of both melanoma and actinic keratoses (precancerous skin lesions). And it's not just about cancer—daily application also significantly slows visible photoaging, as proven in a nested Nambour trial that found 24 per cent less skin ageing among sunscreen users. In Canada, more than 80,000 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year, according to the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Because exposure to ultraviolet radiation is estimated to be associated with 80–90 per cent of skin cancers, the use of sunscreen — which blocks ultraviolet radiation — is promoted as an important means of preventing skin cancers as well as sunburn and skin photoaging. 'Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is directly harmful and has been associated with the development of skin cancers, which are common in Canada. High-quality evidence has shown that sunscreen reduces the risk of developing both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer," said the Canadian study titled The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer. Yet here in India, sunscreen is still misunderstood, underused, and often skipped altogether. While we can argue that people with brown or dark skin have a lower rate of skin cancer, experts believe that when they do get it, it's often diagnosed late and at a more aggressive stage. What Is Sunscreen Lotion & How To Apply It? According to Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, a popular dermatologist based in South Delhi, there's a growing trend where women and girls are heavily influenced by social media beauty content. 'Many now follow the advice of influencers when choosing skincare products, particularly sunscreens. Expensive international products—especially Korean skincare brands—are highly coveted, and many consumers judge them by price or packaging rather than clinical relevance." One of the most common misconceptions is that the higher the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), the better the protection. But this is not entirely correct. SPF primarily measures protection against UVB rays, not UVA or other forms of light damage. Beyond SPF, what really matters is whether the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection. 'A well-formulated sunscreen should include both physical and chemical blockers—ingredients that protect against UVA, UVB, High Energy Visible Light (HEVL), and blue light. These four components of solar radiation are all capable of damaging the skin, each in a slightly different way," Bhardwaj explained. UVA rays penetrate deeply and are mainly responsible for skin ageing and long-term cellular damage, whereas UVB rays affect the surface layers of the skin and are the primary cause of sunburn and direct DNA mutations leading to skin cancer. HEVL, the visible portion of sunlight, is increasingly recognised for contributing to pigmentation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Also, blue light, emitted from device screens and LED lighting, may accelerate ageing and hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones. Most people don't realise that the sunlight spectrum includes more than just ultraviolet rays. It consists of UV light, visible light (including HEVL), and infrared light—all of which can impact skin health. 'For Indian skin, an SPF of 25 or above is typically sufficient, provided the sunscreen has broad-spectrum coverage. Application technique matters just as much as the product itself," Bhardwaj said while explaining how to apply. One simple way to measure the right amount is the 'finger rule": one finger has three phalanges (boxes), so applying one and a half fingers' worth of sunscreen is a good guide for the face and neck. 'It's crucial to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure, and to reapply every three hours for continued protection—especially if you're sweating, in sunlight, or near windows." Myths That Stop Indians From Using Sunscreen According to Dr Anil KV Minz, senior consultant-dermatology at Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, misinformation and lack of awareness continue to fuel poor sunscreen habits. 'Generally, I get to hear from patients that they are not in the sun, it's not summer, or they've read online that sunscreen causes cancer. All of these are misconceptions. Even indoors, we are exposed to UV light through windows and LED screens. Sunscreens have been used for decades by millions without a proven increase in cancer. The formulations have also advanced dramatically—gels, sprays, powders, and creams now cater to nearly every skin type and lifestyle." Also, Indians have long harboured the myth that sunscreen is only important for women, not men. 'There's a deeply ingrained belief that skincare, especially sun protection, is a feminine concern," Bhardwaj said. 'In my 15 years of experience, I have seen how many in India assume that people who apply sunscreen are doing so to become fairer, not to protect their skin. This perception is especially common among men, who often dismiss sunscreen as unnecessary or even un-masculine." According to a review published in the Journal of Integrative Dermatology in 2024, 'while sunscreen is well-established to prevent skin cancer, public use and adherence remain low. Studies show 14.3 per cent of men and 29.9 per cent of women regularly use sunscreen on both their face and exposed areas". top videos View all What Needs to Change Sunscreen should be framed like brushing your teeth or wearing a seatbelt—non-negotiable daily habits that prevent long-term harm. It's time to move beyond anecdotal beliefs and follow the evidence. For a country exposed to harsh sunlight year-round, the science is clear: sunscreen is not a luxury—it's protection against ageing, pigmentation, even-toned skin and cancer. About the Author Himani Chandna Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India's COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : health matters news18 specials skin cancer Sun exposure uva view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 04, 2025, 12:06 IST News india Why Indians Still Don't Take Sunscreen Seriously—Despite the Science Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News.com.au
31-07-2025
- General
- News.com.au
Sunshine Coast community rallies after petition calls for emu to be removed from wildlife park
An Emu with a substantial social media following is at the centre of simmering tensions on the Sunshine Coast after a petition was created to remove the bird from the conservation park it calls home. Fluffy the emu is something of a celebrity in the Parklands Conservation Park in Nambour, where he's known to pose for selfies, jog alongside runners and even offer willing passers by the occasional hug. Fluffy has lived in the park for eight years after he and his brother Muffy were brought there by a couple who rescued them as chicks. He now has his own Instagram page and has become an attraction of sorts, with people coming from far and wide to meet the native bird. The emu is so loved by the local community that when a petition was recently launched to remove him from the area, a counter-petition immediately sprung up with more than 10 times as many signatures. The petition calling for Fluffy's removal cites multiple incidents 'involving a hand raised emu displaying aggressive and territorial behaviour, particularly towards horses and riders'. It states that 'the emu has shown no fear of humans or animals' and that horse riders 'have expressed concern not only for their own safety but for the well being of their animals and other park users.' Local resident Tania Stickler is one of the 194 people who has thrown their support behind the petition after she was injured when she fell from her horse during an encounter with Fluffy in the park earlier this month. 'It [Fluffy] just came at me, it fluffed itself up and my horse spun. It was a blatant attack,' Ms Stickler told A Current Affair on Thursday night. 'I fell off and I was hurt, I was extensively bruised - that was a result of the fall - but he also came at me pecking before my horse took off.' She claimed that Fluffy, 'might be okay around some people, but it still has seriously hurt other people. People are scared to go there.' The park is signposted with a warning that recommends horse riders consider an alternative location in the period between May and September as 'an emu in this park is active at this time of year, particularly towards horses'. Another sign warns that two hand-raised emus live in the park and 'may approach you'. In response to the claims of aggressive behaviour, wildlife advocate and Sunshine Coast Citizen of the Year, Claire Smith, started the counter petition to protect Fluffy's right to live in the park which since amassed more than 2,700 signatures. Also speaking on ACA, Ms Smith launched into a passionate defence of the emu, calling him 'the most gentle bird'. 'Fluffy is as aggressive as a newborn kitten,' she said. 'He's so gentle that children go on the park runs with Fluffy, old people, people that are disabled, if you're running, he'll trot alongside you. Fluffy is gentle. 'He's just got this real affinity and this real urge to be with human beings.' When asked about Ms Stickler's account of Fluffy's behaviour, Ms Smith exclaimed: 'If Fluffy ever really did that, I would eat my hat, your hat, and everybody else's hats in Nambour because Fluffy is incredibly gentle.' Ms Smith argued that horse riders must be very experienced to ride through a park where wildlife are present. 'Anything can come out on a track when it's a conservation park, it could be a large snake, it could be a wallaby, a paddy melon, or it could even be a drop bear,' she said.
Daily Mail
12-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Shock moment accused paedophile wearing The Muppets pyjamas with an 'unleash the beast' t-shirt is arrested
Dramatic footage has captured the moment an accused paedophile wearing The Muppets-themed pyjamas is busted by detectives in his home. Two men, aged 49 and 58, were arrested on the Sunshine Coast by detectives targeting online child exploitation and abuse on Monday. In footage of the arrests, detectives are seen speaking with the pyjama-clad 58-year-old as he sat on a couch barefoot. In another clip, officers are seen inspecting a laptop and desktop computer and searching a room filled to the brim with books. Army medals are also visible on a shelf. The second man, wearing a black sweatshirt and black shorts, is seen speaking with officers while holding work boots in one hand. The 49-year-old man was charged with one count each of using a carriage service to access child abuse material and possessing child exploitation material. Police allege the man accessed child abuse content online, with multiple electronic devices seized from his home for forensic examination. The Nambour man was released on strict bail conditions and is scheduled to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on July 7. The 58-year-old man was arrested following a search of a Sunshine Coast home. He was charged with one count of using the internet to procure a child under the age of 16 and later released on strict bail conditions. He is set to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on July 14. Detective Acting Inspector Cameron Burke of Task Force Argos emphasised the serious risk online predators pose to children. 'Predators are constantly adapting to new platforms and technologies, which is why a whole-of-community response is crucial,' he said. 'Every app, game, or messaging service a child uses can be a potential contact point for harm if not supervised.' He urged parents and caregivers to be involved in their children's online activities. 'Parents and caregivers don't need to be tech experts, but they do need to be engaged,' he continued. 'Understanding the apps children use, the settings, supervising, and keeping the lines of communication open are the key to prevention.'
The Guardian
28-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Billy The Kid looks out of bullets as Maroons faces another Origin defeat
As the State of Origin teams were read out in front of 54,000 fans at Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday, the loudest cheer accompanied the final name on the announcer's list. That roar was bigger than for Kalyn Ponga or Cameron Munster. Throatier than the one reserved for Patty Carrigan. And the face who inspired it hasn't seen a tackle in seven years. To say Billy Slater is well-loved by Queenslanders is an understatement. As if Romeo had only a passing interest in Juliet. Or, to a fresh batch of biscuits, the Cookie Monster wouldn't say no. Sign up to Australia Sport Get a daily roundup of the latest sports news, features and comment from our Australian sports desk after newsletter promotion There is good reason, too. Slater's playing career sparkles with highlights as much as honours. Millions followed his journey as humble roustabout from Nambour to the heights of rugby league, never losing his endearing identity as Billy 'The Kid'. He proved himself to be a Maroons great, one of the symbols in Queensland's most successful Origin era. Since retiring in 2018, his legend has only grown. He has shown to be an adept analyst on broadcasts, often speaking in front of AAMI Park's Billy Slater Stand. His business as a thoroughbred breeder goes from strength to strength. His performance as a horse-riding TV compère at last year's Melbourne Cup carnival was the highlight of Channel Nine's coverage. And of course, as a rookie coach, he masterminded Queensland victories in his first two Origin series. In this context, the crowd's affection for him on Wednesday night is to be expected. But after New South Wales' largely one-sided victory in the State of Origin opener, it's clear love can only do so much. 'I feel pretty flat, to be honest, about our performance', he said after the 18-6 defeat. The result was hardly a thrashing, and for Slater there were positive signs. Winger Xavier Coates was a constant aerial threat and backrower Jeremiah Nanai was a willing combatant. Debutant Robert Toia was targeted by the Blues and forced into 24 tackles (the Maroons' other centre Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow made just seven) but the rookie missed just three and was tidy with the ball. 'I thought his debut was great, so he can hold his head up high,' Slater said. But in truth, there is just as much cause for concern. The Blues went in as favourites, and were far from their best themselves. Five-eighth Mitch Moses, catalyst for the Blues' resurgence in last year's series, was mostly a bystander. Latrell Mitchell ran for just 58m, Liam Martin even less. Spencer Leniu played just 26 minutes. The Maroons coach believes the fans at Suncorp 'didn't see the best of this Queensland team' on Thursday. That 'it's definitely not a personnel thing'. That he knows 'what this team's capable of'. But it's becoming difficult to understand what he sees. In the past four Origin matches, the Maroons have scored 10 tries. Half of those came in the one match, after the Joseph Aukuso Sua'ali'i send-off in Sydney last year. Another three came in the second half of the MCG clash in which they trailed 34-0 at half-time. Wednesday's lone try came directly from a Latrell Mitchell handling error. The last time the Maroons crafted their own a four-pointer in a tight contest against a full Blues contingent was in the fifth minute of last year's series, when Ben Hunt crossed from Daly Cherry-Evans' blindside sneak. The 36-year-old halfback became the oldest Origin player on Wednesday, but admitted the poor attacking return means his place in the team is now a matter of debate. 'We've opened ourselves up to these sorts of questions,' Cherry-Evans said. 'But yeah, I'd love the opportunity to come back and correct it.' The coach said he too faces the same pressures. 'It's not just the players, it's everyone, and we'll all look at ourselves.' He said he still believes in the group, that the attitude of the squad was right even if their indiscipline let them down. And he said he feels responsible to help them find their best football. Slater has spent two decades taking rugby league by the scruff of the neck. But after three straight Origin defeats, this series might be out of his hands. 'At the end of the day,' he admitted, 'it's got to come from the players'.
News.com.au
23-05-2025
- News.com.au
‘Psychopath' jailed for life for heinous woodchipper murder of Nambour man Bruce Saunders to appeal conviction
A 'psychopath' jailed for life for the murder of her ex-partner who was fed to a woodchipper in a plot to claim his will and $750,000 life insurance policy is appealing her conviction. Convicted killer Sharon Graham's bombshell court move was revealed in court documents concerning a recent application by the public trustee, who are administering the estate of slain Nambour man Bruce Saunders. Mr Saunders, 54, died in November 2017 after being fed to a woodchipper while clearing trees at a property in Goomboorian, near Gympie. At Graham's murder trial, her former partner Peter Koenig gave evidence he saw Gregory Roser – who was Graham's partner at the time – deliver the fatal blow to Mr Saunders with a metal bar. After feeling the 54-year-old 'brush' past his arm he saw Mr Saunders on the ground, before Roser struck him in the head again. 'He (Roser) asked me to give him a hand to bring him down to the woodchipper,' Koenig said in his evidence. 'I had his legs, Greg had his arms.' The pair then fed Mr Saunders into the machine, head first. All that remained were his legs, from the top of his thighs to his feet. Koenig, who was initially charged with Mr Saunders' murder, pleaded guilty to a charge of accessory after the fact to murder in July 2022. Koenig agreed to give evidence against Roser and Graham at their respective murder trials after the Crown dropped his murder charge. All that remained of Mr Saunders were his legs, up to his thighs. At the time, Graham had been named the sole beneficiary of Mr Saunders' will and stood to inherit a $750,000 payout from his life insurance policy, along with his car, house and financial savings. She is currently serving a life sentence after a jury in 2023 found her guilty of murder. Mr Saunders' estate is being administered by the Queensland Public Trustee, which includes a $34,441.83 surplus on the sale of his home at 24 Wentworth Crt, Nambour. The four-bed, two-bathroom mortgaged to Perpetual Trustee Company Limited and sold in 2018 for $455,000. 'As Ms Graham would be ineligible to administer the estate and would not be entitled to the bequest if she murdered Mr Saunders, Perpetual paid the money into court,' court documents state. The public trustee was granted an order to administer the will in 2020. Graham has made a claim on the estate, with the court documents stating she 'asserts that she held an equitable interest in the property as a result of contributions she made'. 'She (Graham) has appealed against her conviction, but the appeal has not been heard,' the documents state. The public trustee sought orders from the Supreme Court granting them entitlement to the money from the sale of Mr Saunders' house, which was granted on May 20 by Justice Peter Davis. Roser was jailed for life after a jury found him guilty of Mr Saunders' murder in 2022. In jailing Graham for life, Supreme Court Justice Martin Burns said the 63-year-old regarded Mr Saunders as an 'inconvenience, but worse than that a source of money to secure your future'. 'There are no words for the likes of you,' he said. 'Even if there were, I do not wish to detract in any way from the statements … which have eloquently described the real horror of what you did, and the profound impact it has had, and will continue to have. 'By my observations you have displayed the hallmarks of deep-seated psychopathy. 'If at any point the authorities seriously consider your release, I ask they keep that observation firmly in mind.'
