Study shows link between equity and melanoma care
25 Sep 2025
Australia has the highest melanoma rates in the world, and Queensland records more cases than any other state or territory – about 40% higher than the national average. That makes the Sunshine State the global hotspot for skin cancer.
But new research shows the outlook is even worse for people living in lower socioeconomic areas.
A University of Queensland study has found that patients from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced melanoma than those in wealthier areas. The research, conducted at the Frazer Institute, looked at 700 Queenslanders diagnosed with melanoma between 2010 and 2014. It found that people from lower socioeconomic communities were significantly more likely to present with later-stage disease.
Associate Professor Joel Rhee, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Cancer and Palliative Care, said the findings highlight serious equity issues.
“This is not a good situation. It shows that people from disadvantaged backgrounds aren’t getting the same chance at early diagnosis and treatment,” he told newsGP.
He said more awareness and targeted support are needed to ensure all Australians have equal access to timely melanoma care.
Study lead and PhD candidate Danielle Gavanescu agreed, saying there is a critical need to prioritise patients at greater risk. She pointed out that GPs are usually the first, and sometimes only, point of contact for patients in rural or disadvantaged areas.
“Especially for patients in rural or disadvantaged areas, their GP might be their only pathway to an early diagnosis,” Ms Gavanescu said.
She suggested government incentives could help GPs close the gap between population groups – for example, rebates for skin checks or support for GPs to upskill in cancer detection.
The study supports previous University of Sydney research showing that Australians most likely to see a GP for skin cancer issues are men in Queensland, living in regional or remote areas, with lower socioeconomic status.
Ms Gavanescu said that helping GPs improve their skills in melanoma detection would be a powerful way to improve equity. She also emphasised the importance of opportunistic screening and patient education.
“Delayed diagnosis often happens when people don’t realise they’re at high risk,” she said.
“It’s vital that those most at risk understand their situation and know how often to have their skin checked.”
Source: newsGP
