The Netherlands, in a significant effort to combat the escalating rates of skin cancer, has decided to provide its citizens with free sun protection this summer. The government aims to make sun cream easily accessible to everyone, removing any obstacles such as cost or inconvenience. To achieve this, sun cream dispensers will be placed in schools, universities, festivals, parks, sports venues, and other public spaces across the country, according to The Guardian.

Inspired by Australia’s successful “slip, slop, slap” campaign, which emphasises wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and donning a hat, Dutch authorities hope to transform the act of using sun cream into an automatic and unquestioned habit.

The campaign was launched at a festival in Breda over the weekend, marking the start of a nationwide initiative. The Venlo-Venray hospital, in collaboration with state health insurers, plans to fund sun cream provision in 120 primary schools across multiple municipalities.

Medical experts have witnessed a troubling surge in skin cancer cases in recent years. Sun cream has been proven to be the most effective defence against this disease, making it crucial for children to establish a habit of applying it from an early age, similar to the ritual of brushing teeth.

Jacco Knape, a councillor from the seaside town of Katwijk, expressed the town’s commitment to the health of its residents. He emphasised the importance of sun protection, particularly in a region like Katwijk, where sun exposure is above average, as per the publication.

Skin cancer rates have been steadily increasing throughout Europe over the past two decades. Neighbouring Germany has seen a staggering 55% rise in skin cancer-related deaths since 2001, according to the Federal Office of Statistics.

By addressing this alarming trend, considerable savings can be achieved in healthcare expenses. The proactive measures taken by the Netherlands highlight the nation’s dedication to safeguarding public health.

As unseasonably high temperatures persist across central Europe, Poland, France, and Germany are among the countries experiencing extreme heat. Conversely, Nordic and Mediterranean regions are experiencing cooler temperatures compared to the usual climate for this time of year.

With the implementation of free sun protection and the encouragement of responsible sun exposure practices, the Netherlands aims to protect its citizens and reduce the incidence of skin cancer in the long run.