Health Promotion Agency research: Skin cancer a low priority for men aged 50 to 64

December 15, 2018

New Zealanders 50+ years are most at risk of skin cancer, and men are twice as likely to die from melanoma as women.

The Health Promotion Agency (HPA) has undertaken research to examine the most effective way to support the early detection of skin cancer for this population group. The aim of this research was to gain an insight into typical attitudes to early detection alongside general behaviours and attitudes toward overall health in working men aged 50 to 64 years of age. 

Findings suggest skin cancer is a low priority for NZ males aged 50 to 64, and that workplaces and/or sports clubs may be an effective way to promote the importance of early detection to this audience.

A research summary and an infographic on skin cancer in New Zealand is available at: https://www.hpa.org.nz/research-library/research-publications/early-detection-of-skin-cancer-in-men-50-to-64-years-old-summary

The infographic may be useful for health professionals to talk to their patients about skin cancer in New Zealand, how to best prevent skin cancer and how to self-check.