The geography of melanoma in South Australia

Abstract

<h4>Objective</h4>We sought to determine the distribution of melanoma in South Australia with respect to the relative incidence and mortality in coastal/river versus inland areas and metropolitan versus regional/remote areas, and to outline the public health implications of this distribution.<h4>Methods</h4>All melanoma cases and deaths for the period 1985-2004 for Adelaide and 11 regional centres were geo-coded and then allocated to ABS collection districts. Collection districts with a centroid within 2 km of the coast or River Murray were determined using mapping software.<h4>Results</h4>Melanoma incidence is higher in coastal South Australia (OR=1.19) and near the River Murray (OR=1.25) than in inland South Australia. This geographical effect remains after adjustment for age and socio-economic status. Incidence is also higher in metropolitan Adelaide than in regional areas (OR=1.10). For melanoma mortality there is no significant effect of living near the coast or river, and no effect of living in regional areas.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Living near the coast or River Murray in South Australia is associated with an increased risk of being diagnosed with melanoma.<h4>Implications</h4>Melanoma prevention and acute care programs can be usefully targeted at persons living in coastal and riverine areas, where there is a significant excess of melanoma incidence. This target population is older than inland populations and will require interventions appropriate for aged communities.