Raising Awareness for Skin Cancer in Rural Australia

As part of National Skin Cancer Action Week (November 16 -22 2025) Dr RT Lewandoski from the Rural Doctors Association of Australia, joined FlowFM's Jess Dempster on the Country Viewpoint to discuss the heighten risks faced by rural and regional Australians when it comes to skin cancer.

He said the annual awareness initiative, which aims to encourage early detection and sun safety practices, underscores the need for vigilance across the country, particularly for rural and regional Australians where their access to medical facilities can be limited.

Research shows that Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, with rural residents particularly vulnerable to the disease due to occupational and environmental factors.

“Rural patients often spend more time outdoors, which naturally increases their exposure to harmful UV rays,” Dr. Lewandowski explained. "Common occupations in those areas such as farming, construction, and other outdoor occupations contribute to prolonged sun exposure, amplifying the risk."

He said that in the case of skin cancer - like other forms of the disease - early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Yet, accessing timely medical care in rural areas presents significant challenges.

“There’s a shortage of doctors outside major cities,” Dr. Lewandowski said. “Most specialists, including dermatologists and plastic surgeons, are concentrated in urban centres, leaving rural patients with limited options.”

Additionally, less than 10% of Australian dermatologists practice in regional areas, creating barriers for patients when seeking skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, including long travel distances, added costs, and extended wait times.

Dr Lewandoski said these obstacles can have serious implications for patients.

“Access to care makes a huge difference,” he said. “Earlier diagnosis leads to better outcomes and simpler treatment. Delays in diagnosis can transform what might have been a simple procedure to remove a skin lesion into complex treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation."

Dr. Lewandowski encouraged regional and rural Australians to monitor their own skin for changes and to consult a medical professional as soon as possible if they find anything of concern. He added that individuals with a personal or family history of skin cancer, or those on medications that increase risk, should consider regular skin checks in addition to routine self-examinations. He stressed that everyone, regardless of age or location, should be vigilant.

Sun safety remains a central message of National Skin Cancer Action Week. Protective measures such as wearing hats, applying sunscreen, using sunglasses, seeking shade, and avoiding peak UV hours are simple yet effective ways to reduce risk. While rural residents may already respect these practices, Dr. Lewandowski reminded listeners that the high prevalence of skin cancer in Australia means no one is immune.

Addressing broader systemic issues, Dr. Lewandowski said the RDAA is continuing its calls for increased and improved medical access in rural areas. He said that government programs aimed at training specialists have been implemented, but are not doing enough.

“We need more accountability to ensure funding delivers tangible outcomes for rural patients,” he said.

For those concerned about suspicious spots on their skin, Dr. Lewandowski advised contacting a GP promptly. While travel and logistics can be challenging, early intervention remains key. National Skin Cancer Action Week serves as a timely reminder of the importance of proactive care, particularly for those living outside major urban centres.