Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
Put on a broad-brimmed hat that shades your face and neckWear sun protective clothing that covers as much of your body as possibleSeek shadeWear wrap-around sunglassesApply SPF30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen every two hours
PROTECT YOURSELF IN FIVE WAYS FROM SKIN CANCER

Background on the Campaign

Outlines what the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign is about.

The Australian Government has committed to continuing to educate Australians about the importance of protecting themselves from skin cancer. Forming part of this initiative, Phase Two of the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign aims to capture the attention of young Australians and increase their awareness of skin cancer risk through sun exposure. It also promotes the adoption of multiple sun protection behaviours as normal and socially acceptable behaviours. The Campaign also aims to increase young Australians' awareness of the seriousness of developing skin cancer.

Why do we need a skin cancer campaign?

Skin cancer is a common cancer causing over 1,500 deaths a year. In 2002 alone, 374,000 Australians were treated for non-melanoma skin cancer, which is an extraordinary 103 per cent increase on 1985. Prevention remains the single most effective way to save lives and reduce costs to the Australian health system. Given the high incidence and the personal and economic costs associated with skin cancers (especially melanoma), a strong emphasis on prevention is needed to reduce unnecessary exposure to ultraviolet rays (Strengthening Cancer Care 2005).

image of surgeon operates on mole

Target audience for campaign

The campaign primarily targets:
  • teenagers 13 - 17 years of age; and
  • young adults 18 - 24 years of age.
The youth target audiences have been selected on the basis that they have the worst sun protection behaviours and the highest frequency of sunburn. The communication also targets parents/carers of children 0 - 17 years of age.

Developmental Research

A research project conducted in January 2006 using qualitative research informed the development of the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign.

Developmental Research for National Skin Cancer Campaign (PDF 691 KB)

The research was conducted with adolescents, young adults, parents and adults aged 50 years and over, and people who have had a skin cancer removed. The research explored knowledge, attitudes, awareness and understanding of sun protection and early detection of skin cancer.