Revelations that the Central Coast is at no. 23 of a newly-released melanoma hotspot map from the Cancer Institute NSW is a timely reminder for Coasties to protect their skin while outdoors.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch MP cited the sobering reality that Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Two out of three Australians will be treated for skin cancer in their lifetime which is why protecting our skin from a very young age, and into adulthood, is key to reducing our risk of this devastating disease.
Melanoma is one of the most common cancers among young Australians, and the third most diagnosed cancer in NSW, with more than 5,000 people expected to be diagnosed in the state in 2024.
The most effective defence against UV radiation is to follow these five key steps before leaving the house: 1) Slip on protective clothing, 2) Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, 3) Slap on a wide brimmed hat, 4) Seek shade, and 5) Slide on sunglasses.
Media Release from the Office of Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford
