Melanoma Awareness Campaign 2006/07

Still image taken from 'Tattoo' television commercial

The Cancer Institute NSW and the Cancer Council NSW implemented a melanoma awareness campaign in summer 2006/07. The campaign utilised a television commercial called ‘Tattoo’ to raise awareness of the importance of sun protection.

The commercial conveys the irreversible effects of unsafe sun behaviour. It demonstrates that tanning can lead to skin cancer and that the removal of a skin cancer has obvious and immediate consequences such as scarring of the skin.

Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Melanoma is the fourth most common cancer in NSW and the most common cancer in males aged 25 to 54.

But skin cancer is preventable by following five simple sun protection measures:

Seek shade, especially during peak UV period (10am – 2pm or 11am – 3pm during daylight saving). It is best to avoid the sun during these times.
Wear sun protective clothing that covers as much of your skin as possible, especially your shoulders, arms and legs.
Wear a broad brimmed hat that protects the face, neck and ears.
Apply SPF 30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outdoors and then reapply every two hours.
Wear sunglasses that fit the face well and wrap around the sides of your face.

Download the television commercial | MPEG | 4.2MB | Copyright Cancer Institute NSW