New discussion paper raises awareness of non-melanoma skin cancer as an occupational disease

The Health Policy Partnership has published a new report evaluating the case for non-melanoma skin cancer to be viewed in policy as an occupational disease.

Research shows that people who work outdoors have an increased risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer, yet employment policies in many countries often fail to recognise the condition as an occupational disease. This means data are limited, compensation may not be available, and effective preventive or protective measures may not be in place. Our report looks at different countries’ policies for non-melanoma skin cancer and the wide-ranging effects of the condition.

Optimal management and support for people with non-melanoma skin cancer involves:

• recognition of non-melanoma skin cancer as an occupational disease
• adequate prevention programmes
• timely diagnosis
• multidisciplinary treatment
• holistic ongoing follow-up and support.

The benefits of greater awareness are clear, and the report outlines how following these steps can help us increase awareness and advocate for better prevention and care for people at risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.

Download the discussion paper

For more information on this project, visit the project page.