Towards skin cancer prevention and early detection: evolution of skin cancer awareness campaigns in Australia

Abstract

SUMMARY  Since the 1980s, Australia’s mass-media campaigns promoting skin cancer awareness, namely skin cancer-preventative behaviors and early detection, have targeted the general community as well as high-risk groups, including outdoor workers, schoolchildren and youths. During that time, campaigns have evolved in tone and method of delivery. Their messages are today accompanied by policies, supportive environments such as shade and access to quality sun-protection products governed by national standards. Early detection of skin cancer has been the other aim of these campaigns, and recent downturns in incidence rates, especially in the young, and the shift to mostly thin melanomas at diagnosis in Australia, may partly reflect some campaign success. However, sustained efforts are required for long-lasting skin cancer control.