Understanding Skin Cancer Risks

Living in New Zealand brings many benefits, from breathtaking landscapes to a generally temperate climate. However, one aspect that requires extra care is the risk of skin cancer. New Zealand has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, largely due to its intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels. Awareness of the risks and early signs can help protect your health and support early treatment.

Climate Conditions and Their Impact

New Zealand’s environment intensifies the skin cancer risk for everyone. The country sits under a thinned ozone layer. This means we get less natural protection from UV rays. Combined with a relatively clear atmosphere and high levels of outdoor activity in New Zealand’s lifestyle, this results in stronger and more direct sunlight exposure than in many other parts of the world. UV rays are strongest between September and April but are present all year round and, even on cloudy days or during cooler months, UV exposure can still be significant.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can develop skin cancer certain populations in New Zealand have a higher degree of risk. People with fair skin, especially those who burn easily, are the most vulnerable. Fair-skinned individuals often have less melanin, the pigment that protects skin from UV damage, making them particularly susceptible to both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

New Zealand’s older adults are also at increased risk. The likelihood of developing skin cancer rises with age, reflecting the cumulative effect of years of sun exposure. Those who have lived or worked outdoors for most of their lives (such as farmers, construction workers, or keen gardeners) face elevated risks because of their increased UV exposure over time.

Men are statistically more likely than women to be diagnosed with certain types of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, in later life. This could be due to patterns of outdoor work, recreational exposure and sometimes a reluctance to seek medical advice early. Genetics also play a role. A family history of skin cancer, or having many moles or unusual moles, can put people at higher risk.

While those with naturally darker skin tones have a lower risk they are not immune. Skin cancer can develop in anyone, regardless of ethnicity, although it is less common and sometimes detected later in those with more pigmented skin.

What to Watch For: Early Warning Signs

Knowing your skin and keeping an eye on any changes is the best defence against serious outcomes. The most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma, but non-melanoma cancers are also common and require prompt attention.

It’s important to watch for new moles or spots or any changes in size, colour, shape or texture of existing moles. Melanomas often look different from regular moles and may have uneven edges or multiple colours. Another warning sign can be a mole or spot that becomes itchy, tender, bleeds or doesn’t heal over several weeks.

Squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas are other common forms of skin cancer. These may appear as red, scaly patches, flesh-coloured or pearly bumps, sores that fail to heal or growths that increase in size.

Regular checks are vital especially for those who have lived in New Zealand for many years, have worked outdoors or have fair or vulnerable skin. Checking areas that are often overlooked (such as the scalp, ears, back, and soles of the feet) is also important. Early detection greatly increases the likelihood of successful treatment and recovery.

Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

While skin cancer presents a significant health challenge in New Zealand understanding who is most at risk and what signs to watch for can make a real difference. Protecting yourself means being mindful of UV exposure, being vigilant about changes to your skin and seeking medical advice if you ever notice anything unusual. Encouraging friends and family, particularly those in high-risk groups, to look after their skin helps build a healthier, more sun-aware community. With the right knowledge and habits, you can enjoy New Zealand’s outdoors while keeping your skin safe.