Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world,
with 2 out of every 3 Australians likely to be diagnosed with the disease by
the age of 70. With skin cancer (including both melanoma and non-melanoma
skin cancers) costing the health system more than $1.7 billion each year, it is
critically important that Australia maintains investment into the prevention of
skin cancer.
As the most expensive cancer to treat in Australia, it is
critical that there is dedicated investment into reducing the burden of
disease.
While reducing exposure to UV radiation, known as ‘primary
prevention’, remains the most effective means of reducing the burden of skin
cancer, there are limitations to its ability to fully eliminate skin cancer
risk. Therefore, ‘secondary prevention’ through early detection of skin cancer
forms the second crucial component of an effective national approach to reduce
the skin cancer burden in Australia.
In Australia, most melanomas (77%) are diagnosed in a
primary care setting, indicating that skin checks are typically performed by
general practitioners. Primary care clinicians provide the diagnosis and
treatment of lesions of concern, as well as encourage health-promoting
behaviours aligned with the primary prevention of skin cancer.
As the first point of contact for patients within the health
system, primary care clinicians also support the referral of patients to other
specialists, such as dermatologists, surgeons and oncologists for further
treatment as needed. It is critical that Australia’s primary care system
and clinicians are equipped with the resources, skills and training needed to
support the primary and secondary prevention of skin cancer.
Furthermore, effective early detection and management of
skin cancer must be accompanied by a community who is empowered to regularly
check for skin changes. For example, with appropriate training and education,
professionals such as hairdressers, physiotherapists, massage and beauty
therapists, as well as aged care workers, can support consumers to identify
lesions of concern and seek appropriate medical care earlier.
To support the prevention of skin cancer and reduce the
burden of disease in Australia, SCCA recommends a three-fold approach which is
detailed in this white paper. Click the button below to read the full document.