Ultraviolet radiation

Australia has one of the world’s highest skin cancer rates, with 2087 people dying in 2011 (melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer combined) – more than the national road toll.

In addition, the cost to the health system is enormous – over $300 million annually. Yet most skin cancers could be preventable through appropriate protection from UV radiation.

Evidence-based policy recommendations on how to reduce Australia’s skin cancer burden is contained in the UV chapter of our National Cancer Prevention Policy, with supporting information in a suite of specific position statements.

Sources:

• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. 2014. ACIM (Australian Cancer Incidence and Mortality) Books. Canberra: AIHW.
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. 2005. Health system expenditures on cancer and other neoplasms in Australia, 2000-2001. Canberra: AIHW.