We are aware of the risks so why are skin cancer cases still on the rise?

According to a survey carried out by Ipsos, 88% of global consumers questioned are aware of the risks of developing skin cancer when exposed without protection to the sun; however, sun protection habits are still unsatisfactory and only half have ever consulted a dermatologist for a mole screening, and 1 in 4 admitting they never check their own moles on their body.

According to the market researcher there is a correlation between these statistics and the fact that incidences of melanoma are still on the rise.

The idea that we only need to use sunscreen when we are on holiday also plays a role as 2 in 5 people say they don’t think to protect themselves outside of vacation periods.

The exclusive study was carried out by Ipsos for skin care La Roche-Posay, as it launches its awareness campaign​, in 23 countries across all continents looking into the different attitudes to the sun and general knowledge of the risks associated with exposure.

Inner conflicts​

 If diagnosed early enough, 90% of melanoma cases can be treated effectively.

“This study highlights several inner conflicts that respondents are going through: between the awareness of the risks and the desire to expose oneself to the sun, but also between the knowledge of the signs of potential skin cancer and the unwillingness to take the leap of a systematic and regular mole check, be it self- or dermatologist provided,”​ says Laïla Idtaleb, Director of the Health Department at Ipsos.

“The survey also demonstrates how the outcomes of these tensions vary between countries, genders, age groups and education levels.”​

Selfless​

It seems we are a caring breed though as 73% of the world population claim to do more for the health of their loved ones than for their own health; a statistic that prompted the L’Oreal brand’s ‘Skinchecker’ campaign, encouraging people to check others.

“This study comforts us in the knowledge that more people than ever today recognise the risks of skin cancer when exposed to the sun,”​ says Elisabeth Araujo, International Director of La Roche-Posay.

“Melanoma, however, remains the only preventable cancer for which the mortality rate has not declined over the last few decades and we are astounded at the lack of people who currently check their own moles at home.”​

Global comparison​

Looking at the sun protection situation on a global level it seems 34% of Greeks claim to protect themselves all year round, regardless of the season, followed closely by Chile (33%) and Australia (32%).

The same 3 countries also try the most to stay in the shade when the sun is out.

At the other end of the spectrum Belgium, Denmark and Russia all count just 6% of their population to boast year-round sun protection habits.

Although not necessarily three of sunniest countries in the world when exposed to the sun, the Ipsos survey showed that Ireland, Italy and Portugal all came out on top for use of sun cream with 69% of their population claiming to apply it to their face.

To see the full survey results, please click here.​