The alarming rise in skin cancer cases across Victoria highlights a pressing health concern that warrants our immediate attention. And here's where it gets controversial—despite widespread awareness campaigns, many might still be neglecting essential sun safety practices, potentially leading to more preventable cancers. Recent data reveals a significant increase in skin cancer treatments, especially for non-melanoma types, which, although less deadly than melanoma, are far more common. This trend could suggest that many are becoming complacent about sun protection—an assumption that needs to be challenged.
According to Medicare records analyzed by Cancer Council Victoria, over 170,000 treatments for non-melanoma skin cancers were performed last year alone, marking a 12.3% jump from approximately 151,355 treatments in 2022. To give perspective, Victoria’s population only grew by about 5% during that same period. This discrepancy implies a noteworthy escalation in skin cancer diagnoses, mostly driven by increased exposure to harmful UV rays.
While melanoma is often regarded as the most lethal skin cancer due to its potential to spread rapidly if not caught early, non-melanoma cancers—such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma—occur much more frequently. Without a national registry dedicated specifically to these types, we rely on Medicare data to track trends. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for roughly 70% of non-melanoma skin cancers in Australia. It originates in the lower layer of the outer skin, the epidermis, and tends to develop on areas like shoulders and the back—common locations for sun exposure. Squamous cell carcinoma, which is less frequent, begins in the upper part of the epidermis, often appearing on the forearms and legs.
Recent findings arrive just weeks after the Victorian Cancer Registry reported that residents in regional areas face a higher risk—about 51% more likely—to be diagnosed with melanoma compared with those living in Melbourne and Geelong. Moreover, this group is also 35% more likely to succumb to melanoma than their urban counterparts. This stark contrast raises questions about environmental, behavioral, and healthcare disparities between city and rural populations.
Louise Bibby’s story puts a human face on these statistics. Growing up in rural Victoria and now residing in Swan Hill, she experienced her first basal cell carcinoma removal at age 22—despite diligent sun protection in childhood. She recalls noticing a small lump on her hairline that initially seemed minor but eventually bled when scratched. Her GP referred her to a dermatologist, who performed a complex 'flap procedure'—a technique where skin from nearby areas is moved to cover large wounds after cancer removal, aiming to ensure better healing and cosmetic outcomes.
Since then, Louise has committed to annual skin checks to monitor her health, undergoing multiple procedures on her face, scalp, and chest. Due to her fair hair, her most vulnerable areas include her scalp and hairline—where she’s had ten treatments. She emphasizes that early detection is crucial; it can prevent the need for more invasive and complicated surgeries later on.
She shares her perspective warmly: “Most diagnoses happen by age 70, and my grandparents were among those affected. Melanoma has a tendency to metastasize, making it the most dangerous, which is why I keep an eye on our family’s health. I want others to understand the importance of vigilance, especially as I approach my 40s and become more active in educating my loved ones.”
While melanoma’s deadliness stems from its ability to spread to other parts of the body, Emma Glassenbury, head of SunSmart at Cancer Council Victoria, underscores that non-melanoma cancers should not be taken lightly either. “They can be managed through surgeries, but they remain preventable,” she urges. “Adopting preventive measures is essential because these cancers, while often less aggressive, still pose a health risk.”
In terms of risk factors, men tend to develop skin cancers on their head and neck more frequently than women, who often see melanomas on the limbs. These differences are partly attributed to variations in clothing choices and hairstyles, which affect sun exposure levels. High-risk groups include individuals with fair skin, a history of severe sunburn—especially during childhood and adolescence—family history of skin cancer, and numerous moles.
Glassenbury emphasizes the importance of knowing one’s own skin. “Recognize what normal looks like for you, and if you notice any changes or oddities, consult a healthcare professional promptly. If you're at high risk, work with your GP to develop a personalized skin health plan.” She also highlights that an astonishing 95% of melanomas and 99% of non-melanoma skin cancers could be prevented through proper sun protection practices.
Even though Victoria's climate often appears cooler compared to northern states, UV radiation can still cause significant skin damage—within as little as 15 minutes during peak hours. She advises layering your defenses: wearing hats, covering up with long-sleeved clothing, applying high-SPF sunscreen, donning sunglasses, and seeking shade, especially during extreme UV days. These precautions are vital even on cloudy, windy days, when UV rays can still reach and harm the skin.
