NSW Melanoma Hotspot Map Unveils High-Risk Areas
The Cancer Institute NSW has released a new melanoma hotspot map, highlighting regions with the highest melanoma rates in the state. According to the data, local government areas (LGAs) of Ballina, Lismore, Byron, Clarence Valley, and Coffs Harbour lead with the most cases, with nearly 350 diagnoses anticipated across these areas in 2024.
Rounding out the top 10 are Sutherland Shire, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Tweed, Kempsey, and Richmond Valley. Meanwhile, Mosman, Mid-Western Regional, Shoalhaven, Cessnock, and Wagga Wagga LGAs have entered the top 25.
Melanoma is one of the most common cancers affecting young Australians and ranks as the third most diagnosed cancer in NSW, with over 5,000 new cases projected statewide this year. As the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma is expected to claim the lives of nearly 500 people in NSW in 2024.
While most cases are due to UV overexposure, this type of skin cancer can largely be prevented with proper sun protection. The Cancer Institute NSW, under its 2023–2030 Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy, is working to reduce skin cancer rates through various initiatives, including the “If You Could See UV” campaign. This award-winning campaign, which has proven effective in inspiring skin protection among young adults, is being relaunched this summer with geo-targeted UV alerts and outdoor advertising, especially in high-exposure areas frequented by young people.
To guard against UV radiation, the Cancer Institute NSW advocates for these essential steps before heading outdoors:
- Slip on protective clothing
- Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, applied 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat
- Seek shade
- Slide on sunglasses
NSW’s Top 25 Melanoma-Prone LGAs:
- Ballina
- Lismore
- Byron
- Clarence Valley
- Coffs Harbour
- Sutherland Shire
- Port Macquarie-Hastings
- Tweed
- Kempsey
- Richmond Valley
- Nambucca Valley
- Kiama
- Port Stephens
- Bathurst Regional
- Mid-Coast
- Lake Macquarie
- Mosman
- Mid-Western Regional
- Northern Beaches
- Shoalhaven
- Cessnock
- Wagga Wagga
- Central Coast
- Wingecarribee
- Newcastle
For additional resources on skin cancer prevention, visit the Cancer Institute NSW website.
Health Minister Ryan Park commented:
“This melanoma hotspot map is a critical reminder to practice sun safety, especially as summer approaches. While melanoma cases are highest in regional areas, everyone in NSW faces the risk of skin cancer. Given Australia’s global ranking in skin cancer rates, we all have a responsibility to follow protective measures to mitigate this deadly disease.”
Member for Wakehurst Michael Regan shared:
“Here on the Northern Beaches, outdoor activities are part of life. However, enjoying the sun safely is essential. I lost my father to melanoma, and I understand the need for prevention. Sun safety starts with each of us embracing and promoting a sun-smart culture. Slip, slop, slap, seek, and slide should be a daily routine.”
NSW Chief Cancer Officer, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, stated:
“Two in three Australians will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Consistent protection from UV exposure, starting young and continuing into adulthood, is essential to reducing risk. Even short periods in the sun without protection can be dangerous. Whether it’s a beach day or running errands, I urge everyone to practice sun safety.”
Personal stories highlight the risks and importance of sun protection:
- Anne Gately, a melanoma survivor, emphasized the need for community responsibility in sun protection, saying, “Every bit of UV exposure contributes to cumulative damage, whether you feel it or not.”
- Sonia Knight, currently undergoing immunotherapy for melanoma recurrence, stressed, “Tanning isn’t worth the risk. My daughters never leave the house without sunscreen. I encourage others to lean on resources like Canteen and Melanoma Patients Australia for support.”
This comprehensive approach to melanoma awareness and prevention aims to foster a culture of sun safety across NSW.
