The Government is under fire for not appearing to take the issue of skin cancer control seriously enough.
The Cancer Society has released figures today showing the disease costs the health system more than $57 million a year. Spokeswoman Judith Galtry says there should be more funding for a schools sun protection programme. She says part of the problem is the issue is being sent backwards and forwards between the Ministries of Health and Education.
Dr Galtry says neither ministry appears to support the programme, despite the fact it is very successful. She says young people are at a higher risk of melanoma and early learning can be effective for establishing good practices throughout life.
Dr Galtry says skin cancer prevention is highlighted as a priority in the Cancer Control Strategy developed by Government and non-Government agencies.
