• Will you be working on the sunbed legislation?
• Do you plan outdoor events?
• Are you responsible for designing outdoor spaces?
• Do you provide leisure services?
• Do you diagnose or treat skin cancer?
• Do you work with teenagers?

If so, we need to hear from you - your expertise is the key to preventing skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK. Devon is in the highest 20% of primary care trusts for rates of incidence and mortality and nationally rates are increasing year on year.

This challenge requires a multi-agency co-ordinated and sustained response. The strategy is the first stage; it brings together partners and sets out a vision to reduce skin cancer rates through preventative action and early diagnosis.

The draft strategy was developed through engagement work across agencies led by the Peninsula Cancer Network and NHS Devon. It builds on the behavioural insights of people in the sun developed by the South West Public Health Observatory. It maintains a universal approach, recognising the importance of continued health promotion throughout services, while targeting two high risk groups in particular - teenagers and older people.

Professionals and organisations who are involved with the health of local people are asked to share their expertise in order to inform the strategic vision and join forces to tackle preventable deaths.

“Skin cancer is increasing but it is preventable. By capturing the expertise and learning from a wide range of disciplines, together we can prevent death and illness in the future.” Steve Brown, Assistant Director of Public Health, NHS Devon

“Sadly people don’t recognise how disfiguring surgery can be and how much time it takes to heal. Recognising symptoms and getting treatment early is key.” Karen Davies, Associate Specialist and Chair of the Peninsula Cancer Network Skin Cancer Group

Add your contribution using the feedback questionnnaire by Monday 8th November 2010.

Click the link to view or download the Draft Devon Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy.

Click this link to fill in the short feedback questionnaire.

Please note that the above questionnaire link was removed on 09.11.2010 after the consultation period closed. If you require any further information about this strategy please email Sarah Bird at sarahbird1@nhs.net

Please note that the draft strategy has also been removed - to see the final agreed strategy document please go to the The Devon Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2011-14 page.