Graphic skin ads working against tanning A graphic skin cancer advertising campaign warning about the dangers of tanning is getting through, with more young people now getting their skin checked, the NSW government says.
Minister Assisting the Minister for Health in Cancer, Verity Firth, said six in 10 people surveyed were now more willing to increase their level of skin protection after seeing the Dark Side of Tanning advertisement.
"It's a graphic reminder of the dangers of tanning and it's great that people are responding to these images and doing something about it," Ms Firth said.
The campaign, which features TV, press and billboard ads, warns of the dangers of tanning and the damage that can occur even before the skin starts to show signs of burning.
"The Cancer Institute estimates that there will be around 4,200 new cases of melanoma each year in NSW by 2010, compared with the 3,900 cases expected last year," said Ms Firth.
Ms Firth last week asked the Cancer Institute NSW to investigate a survey in Choice magazine which showed some inconsistencies exist in the quality of care offered at skin care clinics.
"The majority of skin care clinics are effectively detecting, diagnosing and treating patients, but we really need to be sure that this is consistent across the board," she said.
"If people are at all concerned about the advice they are receiving they should seek a second opinion."
© 2008
AAP Source