The Devon Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2011-14 is now available to download, following endorsement from the board. Performance against the action plan will be monitored by the Devon Healthy and Stronger Communities Partnership.  

     Devon Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2011-14

Skin cancer rates have increased rapidly in the last 30 years. The South West has the highest incidence and mortality rates in the country, and Devon has the fourth highest rates of malignant melanoma in the country.  

This strategy sets out a local multi-agency response to this major public health challenge. Approximately 80% of skin cancer can be prevented, but if rates are to be reversed, co-ordinated and sustained action needs to be taken across schools, local authorities, acute trusts, leisure providers, events organisers, voluntary sector organisations, and other partners.  

Awareness raising is important, but it must lead to sustained behaviour change in order to make a lasting impact on rates. Education, policy work, environmental changes and early diagnosis all have their part to play. Interventions must be targeted and evidenced-based in order to lead to a long-term shift in societal attitudes and behaviours around sun safety.  

Partnership working is at the centre of the strategy. The recommendations span from prevention, implementing whole population interventions in a range of settings (for example community, schools and workplaces) to the early diagnosis of skin cancer in acute settings.  

The multi-agency action plan covers a range of activities, including two pilot projects, a ‘Love Your Skin’ pilot with Exeter college students using a UV facial scanner, and a ‘Know Your Skin’ early diagnosis campaign in pharmacies across Devon. The reports can be viewed or downloaded using the links below:

• Love your Skin
• Know Your Skin

Click the link to read the key messages about skin cancer prevention. 

For more information and advice, go to:

• www.sunsmart.org.uk
• www.swpho.nhs.uk/skincancerhub

Or contact Sarah Bird on sarahbird1@nhs.net or 01392 267754.