Skin cancer in Australia

[citation needed] Australia experienced relative success through skin cancer prevention campaigns started in the 1980s and continued to invest and promote awareness through government-funded mass media strategies.

[4] Australians culturally identify with the "bronzed Aussie" stereotype,[citation needed], viewing it as a positive body image associated with recreational sport and exercise-orientated lifestyles.

With over 90% of melanomas derived through contact with the sun,[4] skin cancer preventive initiatives in Australia strived to change this perception.

[7] In February 2009, the Victorian Government introduced license changes, including banning under 18s, consistent with the revised Australian standard, released in January 2009.

[6] Artificial UVR primarily used in tanning salons and sunbeds, has generated concern among health officials and it was observed to considerably heighten the risk of developing cutaneous malignant melanoma.

[6] A study in 2010 found strong evidence supporting association between indoor tanning salon use and increased risk of developing melanoma.

[2] These increased risks were specifically associated with younger participants,[2] with tanning and solarium use relatively popular among teens and young adults.

[3] Similarly the Anglo-Celtic ancestry of many New Zealanders together with their outdoor lifestyle, is presumed to be a dominant factor in the risk, due to the effect of high UV levels on fair skin.

[25] In order to maintain effective prevention and national awareness Australia used a variety of campaigns and initiatives beginning in the early 1980s.

[3] It was so successful that it remained part of the SunSmart slogan, which was updated to read, Slip, Slop, Slap, Slide (on sun glasses), Seek (shaded areas).

Social education, challenging societal and cultural ideals, is one of SunSmart's methods for promoting awareness and through its many successes now functions throughout all of Australia, under state Cancer Councils.

[3] Media promotion and education remains a vital and effective tool in Australian skin cancer awareness strategy.

Despite its effectiveness[citation needed] members of the public remain indifferent or unaware of the risks caused by inefficient sun protection and skin care.

[4] Awareness and early detection are the most efficient tools for avoiding skin cancer and are the basis of many effective prevention campaigns in Australia.

Prevention programs are a productive tool, as they beneficially influence attitudes and behaviours towards skin cancer, but also deliver positive financial returns.

The study found strong evidence that continued investment and support for SunSmart was economically sound and presented beneficial outcomes for Australia.