Don’t forget your sunnies this Saturday, September 5 and join the Melanoma Institute stars in celebrating National Shades Day – a day dedicated to raising awareness of melanoma and skin cancer, in particular among 13-39 year olds who are most at risk.

Professor John Thompson, director of the Melanoma Institute, said he’s thrilled that the NRL’s Cowboys, Broncos and Sharks, as well as Australian Rally Driver Neal Bates have all come on board this year to support National Shades Day, which focuses on encouraging 13-39 year olds to take preventative measures to reduce sun exposure.

With a 1 in 17 chance of being diagnosed with melanoma in a lifetime, everyone needs to be aware of the risk of skin cancer, and in particular melanoma - its deadliest form. In 2005 there were 10,684 melanoma cases diagnosed in Australia, making it the fourth most common cancer in the country. It’s predicted that this number will increase to more that 12,500 cases by 2010.

The good news is that prevention of melanoma is possible through reduced exposure to the sun’s ultra violet rays and the MIA has teamed up with some of Australia’s top sports stars to spread the message through National Shades Day.

“13-39 year olds are the most at risk as young people’s skin suffers greater harm from UV rays than older, tougher skin. What most young people might not realise is that sun damage done at a younger age significantly increases the chance of a melanoma occurring during later life,” Professor Thompson said.

“We’re delighted to have the support of the NRL and Australian rally driver Neal Bates for National Shades Day in 2009 and hope everyone will take note of the Day’s important message. It goes back to slip, slop, slap - seek shade, wear protective clothing including a broad-brimmed hat and wrap-around sunglasses and always apply water resistant SPF30 at least every two hours when you’re in the sun.”

In support of National Shades Day, players from the NRL’s North Queensland Cowboys, Brisbane Broncos and Cronulla Sharks along with the AFL’s Adelaide Crows will individually sign and donate team playing jerseys which will be placed in a silent online auction on the MIA website – memorabilia no sports fan will want to miss. This auction is now closed.

Getting involved in National Shades Day is easy – be responsible when outdoors by wearing a broadbrim hat, sunglasses, long sleeve shirts and pants, applying sunscreen and seeking shade.

If you would like to donate to the Melanoma Institute Australia you can get along to your participating Toyota dealership and join in the fun or donate online.