Our doctors see the harsh results of sun damage every day. Skin cancer is not just common in New Zealand, it is the most common cancer we face, and the numbers are rising. The recent report from the Public Health Communication Centre, Aotearoa’s Skin Cancer Crisis: The Case for Sun Safety Action, is a timely reminder of how urgent this issue has become.
Each year, tens of thousands of New Zealanders are treated for skin cancers – many of them are seen by Molecheck doctors. The cost to our health system exceeds $450 million annually, yet only $300,000 is invested in prevention. That is a fraction of what was spent two decades ago. We’re spending more on treatment than on stopping the disease before it starts.
Two out of three New Zealanders will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. And most people support stronger sun safety measures. In fact, 87 percent of Kiwis surveyed back national SunSmart policies in schools, and 90 percent want more shade provided at schools. This shows that the public understands the risks and is ready for change.
Despite this support, sun protection is not consistently enforced. Outdoor workers, sports clubs, and councils often lack basic UV protection policies:
These gaps put lives at risk and place unnecessary pressure on our health system – we see this in the high demand for our services in both our Christchurch and Auckland clinics.
We believe sun safety prevention should be built into everyday life. That means:
We also know that early detection plays a critical role in reducing harm. Regular skin checks can catch changes before they become serious, giving people the best chance at successful treatment.
The evidence is clear, and the public is ready. Now is the time for leadership, investment, and action. We must prioritise sun safety not just in summer, but year-round. Let’s protect our communities, reduce the burden on our health system, and make sun safety a national priority.
