the NSW melanoma hotspots, and how to cover up

December 2, 2024

As you are likely aware, Plow’s mission is to reduce the risk and prevalence of skin cancer, particularly among surfers and watersport lovers. In a 2023 Southern Cross University study, surfers had about 120 times the odds of melanoma of the general Australian population (Miller et al. 2023, PeerJ). With skin cancer action week just past us, we took the time to read up on the latest report from The Cancer Institute NSW. Like us, their vision is to reduce the incidence of skin cancer.

In case you haven’t seen it (it’s not the lightest topic for a bedtime read), here are our biggest takeaways:

95% of melanoma and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by overexposure to UV radiation
4 of the top 5 melanoma hotspots were beach side suburbs
Melanoma is the third most diagnosed cancer in NSW
It’s expected that over 5000 people will be diagnosed with melanoma in NSW in 2024, and over 500 people will lose their lives
The best cure is prevention

We know these are scary stats but we are DESPERATE for people to get the word out there. Wearing suncream, covering up and staying in the shade are such simple ways to reduce exposure. A US study found people who often covered up with a hat, long sleeves or shade had about 40% lower odds of melanoma than people who rarely did (Lazovich et al. 2011).

Image Source: The Cancer Institute NSW

What can you do to reduce your risk of melanoma?

Share the report with friends and family, PARTICULARLY if they live in one of the hotspot areas (see the top 25 list below)
Stay out of the sun when you can
When you have to be out in the sun:
- Wear sunscreen
- Cover up
- Don’t forget your hat* and sunnies
  *Pick a hat that shades your face, ears and neck. A bucket or legionnaire-style hat does the job!
Get your skin checked by a professional
The Skin Check Champs often run events and you can find bulk billed skin check clinics across NSW. If you have private health insurance your checks may also be included. If you can’t get to a professional, check out our guide to checking your own skin.
Remind your friends and family