Why this indicator is important
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.1
Skin cancers can be:
- melanomas
- basal cell carcinomas (BCCs)
- squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs).
BCCs and SCCs are often grouped together as non-melanoma skin cancers.
It is estimated that around 95 percent of melanoma skin cancers, and around 99 per cent of non-melanoma skin cancers, could be prevented through reduced exposure to UV radiation.1
The NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy supports government, non-government and community organisations to work together to:
- increase the use of sun protection policies and guidelines
- improve access to adequate shade
- increase the use of sun protection behaviours.
Progress is being made in each of these areas.
About this indicator
This indicator relates to adults (18 years and over) in NSW who reported adoption of sun-safe behaviours.
- Adoption of sun protection behaviours among NSW adults remained relatively unchanged between 2014 and 2016.
- In 2016, 63.6% of survey respondents wore sunglasses when out in the sun for more than 15 minutes.
- In 2016, less than half of NSW adults adopted other sun protection behaviours when out in the sun for more than 15 minutes, including: seeking shade; slipping on protective clothing; slopping on sunscreen; and slapping on a broad-brimmed hat.
Note: These data were the latest available at the time they were extracted (May 2018). For the most recent population health data, visit HealthStats NSW.
Proportion of adults who always or often used sun protection when out in the sun for more than 15 mins, NSW, 2014 and 2016
N = Number of survey respondents.
Notes:
- Data source: NSW Population Health Survey (sourced from HealthStats NSW, Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence, NSW Ministry of Health). Available at www.healthstats.nsw.gov.au (accessed May 2018).
Reference:
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Skin Cancer in Australia. Cat. No. CAN 96. Canberra: AIHW, 2016.