The Cancer Institute NSW has made a call for feedback on a draft strategy to prevent skin cancer with the public sector leading the way in prevention initiatives.
Launching a survey, the Institute said it consulted with the community earlier this year to help shape the NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2023, which is to run to 2030.
It said that to help refine and finalise the strategy, all community members were invited to have their say.
“Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and it is one of the most common cancers among young Australians,” the Institute said.
“More than two in three Australians treated for skin cancer in their lifetime.”
It said that in 2018, an estimated 5,025 NSW residents were diagnosed with melanoma.
“That figure is projected to increase to 5,655 in 2023, resulting in an estimated average of 497 deaths across the state each year,” the Institute said.
“The good news is we can change this,” it said.
“Skin cancers can be prevented by always protecting your skin when outdoors.”
The Institute said the draft strategy focused on three goals: To embed skin cancer prevention initiatives across the public sector, private sector and community; Improve access to adequate shade at work, school, play and in public places; and Increase the adoption of sun protection behaviours among those with low sun protection behaviours, those at high risk of skin cancer, and the broader community.
A one-page summary of Cancer Institute NSW’s draft strategy can be accessed at this PS News link.
