[Greens-Media] Greens call for nationally funded skin cancer prevention campaign

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

Greens call for nationally funded skin cancer prevention campaign
Tuesday 18th November 2008

The Australian Greens today joined calls for a long term nationally funded skin cancer prevention campaign, supporting the Cancer Council of Australia's campaign. 

"Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. More than 1,600 Australians die from skin cancer each year, with skin cancers making up 80 per cent of all newly diagnosed cancers.  Almost a million visits to GPs each year are for the treatment of preventable non-melanoma skin cancers," said Australian Greens spokesperson on health, Senator Rachel Siewert.
 
"Teenagers are at great risk, partly because some of them think of a tan as a necessary fashion accessory, and also because they spend so much time outdoors, at the beach or playing sport. Some people see a tan as healthy looking, but there is no safe way to tan; not in the sun and not in solariums."

"Currently the Federal Government only funds skin cancer awareness campaigns on a year by year basis. The Cancer Council needs a commitment from the Government to a long term campaign and last week the Senate passed my motion calling for funding of such a campaign," said Senator Siewert. 

"The Government's own research shows that these campaigns can be effective. Now is the time to build on past campaigns, to work with and support researchers in the field, and to make a commitment to a longer term national prevention program that lasts longer than just one summer to the next."

"In the meantime, everyone is encouraged to follow the Cancer Council's suggestions; slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on your wrap-around sunnies!"

National skin cancer action week is November 16-22

For more information or media enquiries please call Tim Norton on 0418 401 180