Effectiveness of cross-sector collaboration in strategy implementation and impact: Evaluation of the NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2016-2022

Issues addressed: Australia continues to have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In NSW, melanoma is the third most common cancer diagnosed. At least 95% of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun, making it a highly preventable cancer. The NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy (the Strategy) aims to reduce overexposure to UVR through collaborative efforts across government and non-government partners and the private sector. An evaluation was required to inform the Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2023-2030 development and implementation.

Methods: The Strategy was evaluated using a mixed-methods approach, which included both process and outcome evaluation measures. Measures included population and campaign tracking surveys, administrative datasets, a document review of progress reports and meeting minutes, and semi-structured interviews and workshops with stakeholders.

Results: The evaluation outlined activities and achievements under each of the Strategy goals. Findings demonstrated improved understanding and awareness of sun protection policies and guidelines, improved access to adequate shade, increased measurability of shade availability and adequacy, and increased adoption of sun protection behaviours.

Conclusion: Cross-agency collaboration and commitment were a key strength of the Strategy. The continued prioritisation of settings (e.g. schools, workplaces, etc.) and populations outlined in the Strategy were supported by the evaluation's findings. Additional focus areas for the new Strategy were highlighted, including secondary prevention or early detection. Continued skin cancer prevention activities, including social marketing campaigns and public education programs, are essential to ensure the adoption of sun protection behaviours by priority populations.