New figures show melanoma most common cancer in young Queenslanders
8 January 2016
Around 110 melanomas are diagnosed in males aged under 35 each year, followed by 80 cases of testicular cancer, while around 140 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed in Queensland females under 35. Thyroid cancer is the second most common cancer in this group affecting more than 60 women each year.
Commenting on the statistics MIA’s Research Director Professor Graham Mann highlighted that sun and solarium exposure are the most common causes of melanoma in younger people.
“We must remember that melanoma rates are influenced by UV radiation exposure that has happened many years earlier, especially in the formative years. The variances we are seeing may be because of the way men and women have used sunbaking and solariums differently.
“Many teenage girls and young women deliberately sunbake and may not cover up with a hat or protective clothing, so maybe this is having an impact. Or possibly male-female biology may be a factor. But man or woman, pursuing that summer glow is a gamble and ultimately can cost you a lot more than it’s worth,” Professor Mann said.
The latest Queensland figures are based on 2012 data prior to the banning of sun beds.
“Fortunately commercial solariums have been banned since about 2014. This was partly because we’ve learned that, among people who used solariums, most of their melanomas before the age of 30 were due to sunbed use. Women were about twice as likely to use sunbeds as men were, and maybe that is also contributing to the different rates we are seeing,” Professor Mann added.
Queensland has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Around 3,000 melanoma and 133,000 non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed across the state each year.
You can read more on this story here.
A message to all Australians from melanoma patient Stuart Taylor
Stuart has advanced melanoma which is not responding to treatment. He has shared his story on ABC's 7:30 in the hope that others can escape the same fate.
Olivia Vivian nominates MIA as Charity Partner on Channel 9's Celebrity Apprentice.
A Ninja Warrior legend and Olympic gymnast, Olivia knows first hand the devastating impact of melanoma.
It's 'Game On Mole' this summer!
All Australians are urged to join the fight against melanoma this summer.
Prof Richard Scolyer named Outstanding Cancer Researcher of the Year
The ground-breaking work of MIA's Co-Medical Director Prof Richard Scolyer has been recognised with NSW’s highest accolade for cancer research.
Dr James Wilmott wins 2020 Wildfire Highly Cited Publication Award
A landmark study led by MIA's Dr Willmott is making a difference to melanoma treatment around the globe.
MIA researchers feature on prestigious Highly Cited Researchers 2020 List
The highly anticipated annual list is the “who’s who” of the scientific elite from across the globe.
Game On Mole is back this summer!
The uniquely Aussie awareness campaign ‘Game On Mole’ is back for its second year – with a new look but same important message.
RCPA recognition for Professor Richard Scolyer.
Professor Richard Scolyer receives The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Distinguished Fellow Award.
Professor Georgina Long hands on baton of SMR Presidency
Professor Long cites as a highlight of her 2-year Presidency, the phenomenal research output by SMR members who have continued to lead the cancer field despite the impact of COVID-19.
City2Surf 2020
Join in the fun of the virtual event, and together we can run over melanoma!
Top melanoma experts at MIA
Melanoma Institute Australia features prominently in the latest ‘Expertise in Melanoma’ world rankings, released by Expertscape.
Top melanoma experts from MIA
Melanoma Institute Australia features prominently in the latest ‘Expertise in Melanoma’ world rankings, released by Expertscape.
Melanoma Supportive Care Needs research study.
Participate in our online survey and help us understand the support needs of melanoma patients and carers.
Research reveals long-term benefit of adjuvant therapy for Stage III melanoma
New data reveals long-term benefit of adjuvant therapy for Stage III melanoma.
New online melanoma risk calculators critical to saving lives
Clinicians and their patients now have access to three online risk calculators developed by researchers at Melanoma Institute Australia.
Professor Richard Scolyer receives University of Sydney Alumni Award.
MIA's Co-Medical Director Professor Richard Scolyer has received The University of Sydney Alumni Award for International Achievement.
Uniting together despite the distance
More than 120 MIA clinicians, researchers and staff came together online to share research highlights.
Professor Richard Scolyer recognised in The Pathologist's 2020 Power List.
For the 2nd consecutive year, MIA's Co-Medical Director Professor Richard Scolyer has been selected in the top 100 best, brightest, and most powerful advocates of pathology by The Pathologist.
Important Update: Masks required at Poche Centre
As of Monday 27th July all patients and carers/family members coming into The Poche Centre will be required to bring their own mask.