By: Steff Willis
In a country where the “bronzed Aussie” image has led to more skin cancer deaths than road accident fatalities, the World Health Organisation predicts a staggering 68% increase in melanoma deaths by 2040.
Australia is a wonderful place to call home, but it’s not without its risks. With the highest skin cancer rates in the world, Australia faces a serious challenge due to excess UV exposure—yet many Aussies still underestimate the dangers.
That’s why leading peak bodies including the Australasian College of Dermatologists and Cancer Council, along with aligned project partners including Premiere Presenting Sponsor and leading dermo-cosmetics brand Eau Thermale Avène, have launched Conquering Skin Cancer – a documentary feature film about reframing our relationship with the sun.
Cancer Council estimates that 2 in 3 Australians will develop a skin cancer in their lifetime. The documentary explores our complex relationship with the sun, the intertwined ties between our environment, fashion, and the media.
Conquering Skin Cancer features prominent and beloved voices including Australians of the Year Professors Richard Scolyer and Georgina Long, Australian media icon Deborah Hutton, Olympian Cate Campbell, World Champion Surfer Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew, and actor Hugh Jackman.
Hugh Jackman has been an open advocate for skin checks after his experiences with basal cell carcinoma, but never before has he sat down to recount his journey in depth.
“I’m so proud of what we’ve created” said Mike Hill, the film’s director. “It features a brilliant cast, from everyday Aussies to high-profile celebs, which really speaks to the central argument: we all have a role to play in conquering the world’s most common and most preventable cancer. The film is fast-paced, surprising, cinematic, laugh-out-loud funny and deeply moving.”
Conquering Skin Cancer calls for an unprecedented push in prevention, greater access to life-saving care, and crucial investments in cutting-edge treatments and research.
Tickets are on sale now for select Australian cinemas. For more information and to find a session, visit the Conquering Cancer Campaign website.
Article supplied with thanks to 96five.
All images supplied by Moonshine Agency and used with permission.