Manly may be known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant marina, but it also carries a troubling distinction: one of the highest melanoma diagnosis rates in the city.
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Alongside nearby Birkdale and Ashgrove in the city’s west, Manly has been identified as a melanoma hotspot, according to the Australian Cancer Atlas.
The Grim Reality of Queensland’s Skin Cancer Rates
Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, remains a significant health concern in Queensland, which continues to bear the title of the “skin cancer capital of the world.” Despite some progress in reducing cases among younger Australians, the prevalence of melanoma in areas like Manly highlights the ongoing challenge.
The bayside’s sun-drenched lifestyle, while enviable, is a double-edged sword. Long hours outdoors, coupled with high UV exposure, put residents at increased risk. Experts emphasize that while anyone can develop melanoma, certain factors significantly heighten the risk.
Risk Factors for Melanoma
Individuals living in high-incidence areas like Manly often exhibit one or more of the following risk factors:
- Unprotected exposure to UV radiation, particularly during childhood.
- High numbers of moles (naevi), especially those with irregular shapes and uneven colors.
- A personal or family history of melanoma.
- Fair skin that burns easily, light-colored eyes, and red or blonde hair.
- Weakened immune systems due to prolonged use of immunosuppressive medications.
A Persistent Challenge for Queensland
Over 4,180 Queenslanders are diagnosed with melanoma each year, making it the second most common cancer in both men and women in the state.
Efforts to combat skin cancer—from public awareness campaigns to encouraging daily sunscreen use and protective clothing—have shown promise, particularly among younger generations. However, Queensland’s high UV index and outdoor-centric lifestyle ensure that skin cancer remains a pervasive issue.
Why Are Rates Higher in Manly?
While exact causes for Manly’s elevated rates remain under investigation, its demographics and lifestyle patterns offer clues. Cancer Council Queensland suggested that the lower melanoma rates in certain areas may be linked to a higher proportion of non-European residents, but further research is needed to understand the cause.
The outdoor culture inherent to bayside living may also play a significant role. Given the nearly year-round intense sun exposure, residents and visitors in Manly must be particularly vigilant about sun protection.
What Can Residents Do?
Cancer Council Queensland continues to stress the importance of sun safety, especially for residents in high-risk areas. Key recommendations include:
- Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
- Wearing broad-brimmed hats and UV-protective clothing.
- Seeking shade during peak UV hours.
- Regularly checking skin for new or changing moles and seeing a doctor promptly for any concerns.
Read: Manly Pharmacy Joins Queensland’s Community Pharmacy Hormonal Contraception Pilot
Looking Ahead
As researchers delve deeper into the factors driving melanoma rates in hotspots like Manly, public health campaigns will need to evolve to address these localized challenges. For now, residents are urged to remain vigilant and proactive about their skin health, ensuring that the sunny bayside lifestyle doesn’t come at too high a cost.
Published 26-December-2024
