How do environmental factors and health behaviours interact to influence an individual's risk of developing skin cancer in Australia. (5 marks)
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*Cause-and-effect language that directly addresses the “How” (unofficial) keyword is bolded in the answer below.
*Cause-and-effect language that directly addresses the “How” (unofficial) keyword is bolded in the answer below.
- Australia’s location causes intense UV radiation exposure. This is due to our proximity to the equator combined with ozone depletion, resulting in UV levels 40% higher than Europe. This leads to Australia having the world’s highest melanoma rates.
- Sun protection behaviours directly mitigate environmental risk. When people apply SPF30+ sunscreen, this blocks 97% of UV rays. As a result, regular users experience much lower melanoma risk.
- Conversely, avoiding protection causes UV damage accumulation, triggering cancer development.
- Built environments determine how exposure occurs. First, a lack of shade results in direct sunlight exposure. This then leads to increased peak-hour UV contact. Subsequently, shade structures reduce UV exposure, resulting in safer outdoor activities.
- Cultural norms influence behaviours through social pressure. This works by beach culture promoting tanned skin, which causes sun-seeking behaviour. Despite education campaigns, this influence leads to many young people pursuing tans and thereby increasing their lifetime melanoma risk.