Several Newcastle/Hunter LGAs Named As Top Melanoma Hotspots

The latest data from the Cancer Institute NSW has unveiled worrying statistics for skin cancer across New South Wales, with the Lower Hunter suburbs of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Cessnock listed among the top areas for melanoma incidence. The state-wide melanoma hotspot map reveals that in 2024, more than 5,000 new melanoma cases are projected to be diagnosed in NSW, and the risk is especially high in these areas.

Minister for Health Ryan Park highlighted the importance of sun protection as summer approaches, stating, “The release of the latest melanoma hotspot map is a timely reminder to always take protective measures when outdoors. While regional areas feature prominently in the list, skin cancer risk is a concern for everyone, no matter where they live.”

Suburbs in the Lower Hunter are now significant melanoma zones, joining areas like Ballina, Lismore, and Byron in having some of the highest rates of skin cancer in NSW. Despite improvements in public awareness, melanoma remains one of the most common cancers among young Australians, ranking as the third most diagnosed cancer in the state. Tragically, melanoma is projected to claim nearly 500 lives in NSW this year.

The Cancer Institute NSW continues to lead efforts to curb the spread of melanoma through their Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2023-2030. One key initiative, the If You Could See UV campaign, targets young people aged 18–24 with messages about sun safety, aiming to shift behaviours towards better protection. The campaign has been successful, with more than 75% of young viewers feeling compelled to adopt sun-safe practices. In addition to traditional media, the campaign includes geo-targeted reminders on weather apps, alerting users when UV levels are high.

NSW Chief Cancer Officer, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM, underlined the urgency of consistent protection, noting, “UV radiation in NSW is dangerously high for most of the year. Even brief exposure can be harmful. Whether it’s a quick trip outside or a day at the beach, it’s crucial to seek shade, wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing.”

Survivors like Anne Gately and Sonia Knight have shared their experiences to raise awareness. Anne, who survived stage 4 melanoma after initially thinking she had beaten the disease, stressed community responsibility, “Every bit of UV exposure adds up, and the damage isn’t always visible straight away. We owe it to each other to be sun smart.”

Sonia’s melanoma journey has been similarly sobering. Diagnosed twice, she now spreads the message of sun safety to everyone around her, especially her family. “Growing up on the Northern Beaches, we thought tans were healthy. Now, I teach my daughters that it’s crucial to protect themselves from the sun, and I urge everyone to do the same,” she shared.

Sun Safety Steps Everyone Should Take

Health authorities recommend five crucial steps to defend against UV exposure:

1. Slip on protective clothing.
2. Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, applying 20 minutes before heading outside and reapplying every two hours.
3. Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
4. Seek shade whenever possible.
5. Slide on sunglasses.

For further information on reducing skin cancer risk, visit the Cancer Institute NSW website.

The message is clear: with some of the highest melanoma rates in the world, Australians must remain vigilant, particularly in identified hotspots like Port Stephens, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, and Newcastle. Now is the time to step up your sun protection game before the summer sun peaks.