Revelations that the Central Coast is at number 23 of a newly released melanoma hotspot map from the Cancer Institute NSW is a timely reminder for Coasties to protect their skin while outdoors.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP cited the sobering reality that Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world.
“Two out of three Australians will be treated for skin cancer in their lifetime which is why protecting our skin from the sun from a very young age, and into adulthood, is key to reducing our risk of this devastating disease,” Tesch said.
“Here on the Central Coast, we love being outdoors enjoying the natural environment or being active.
“This is healthy, but only if you’re being sun smart.
“Otherwise, it can be deadly.
“Whether you’re heading to the beach, hanging the washing or walking to the shops or train station, I urge everyone to do the simple things like seeking shade when outdoors, wearing sunscreen, putting on a hat, sunglasses and protective clothing to safeguard themselves from harmful UV radiation from the sun.”
Melanoma is one of the most common cancers among young Australians, and the third most diagnosed cancer in NSW, with more than 5,000 people expected to be diagnosed in the state in 2024.
As the most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma can be deadly and is projected to take the lives of close to 500 people across NSW this year.
Ninety-five per cent of melanoma and 99 per cent of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun and can be prevented with proper sun protection.
The summer relaunch of its If You Could See UV campaign forms part of a suite of initiatives underway at the Cancer Institute NSW to help reduce the impact of skin cancer in NSW.
The most effective defence against UV radiation is to follow these five key steps before leaving the house: slip on protective clothing; slop on SPF50+ sunscreen ( apply 20 minutes before heading outdoors and re-apply every two hours); slap on a wide brimmed hat; seek shade; and slide on sunglasses.
Ballina, Lismore, Byron, Clarence Valley and Coffs Harbour local government areas have the state’s highest rates of melanoma, with almost 350 cases projected to be diagnosed in those areas in 2024.
Sutherland Shire, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Tweed and Kempsey and Richmond Valley LGAs are also in the state’s top 10 melanoma hotspots, while Mosman, Mid-Western Regional, Shoalhaven, Cessnock and Wagga Wagga LGAs have entered the top 25.
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