CYCLING Under The Harsh Australian Sun

THAT’S THE OFFICIAL WORD FROM CANCER COUNCIL Australia National Skin Cancer Committee Chair Heather Walker who says, being tightly woven, lycra can actually help protect skin from the UV rays which can damage skin, alter DNA and lead to skin cancers including melanomas, basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas.

Not alone, of course, but part of a five-pronged arsenal of protection which means people can get outside in the sun to exercise rather than stay at home risking other kinds of cancers.

“Fear of skin cancer should not prevent people getting into the great outdoors and exercising,” Heather says down the line from her Melbourne office. “Rather, it’s a matter of employing as many of the five protective factors recommended by the Cancer Council as