Cancer Society NZ — Position statements

Current

Bowel screening

New Zealand has one of the highest bowel cancer age-standardised incidence rates in the world, it is currently the second most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the country.

Current

Cancer Screening

PSA testing for Prostate Cancer (Under Review)

In New Zealand, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and the third leading cause of cancer deaths in men.

Current

Alcohol and cancer

Drinking any amount of alcohol regularly, even low levels, can increase the risk of some cancers.

Current

Skin Cancer Screening and Early Detection

Skin cancers are one of the most common cancers in NZ. Recognition of early signs and early seeking of medical advice are key factors in early detection, effective treatment and survival from skin cancer.

Current

Preventing cancer caused by unhealthy diet and excess weight

A healthy weight and diet are key to preventing many cancers. Strong food and nutrition policy as well as government action to enable access to affordable, sustainable and healthy food for all New Zealanders will help to reduce cancer risk and related inequities.

Current

Vaping

We support further measures to regulate vaping, so that our laws strike the right balance of supporting people who vape to stop smoking while also protecting young people from vaping.

Current

Vitamin D and Sun Exposure in Pregnancy and Infancy

Infants should not be exposed to direct sunlight. For pregnant women and infants who are mobile, the same SunSmart messages apply as for the general public: sun protection is recommended between September and April, especially between 10am and 4pm.

Current

Risks and Benefits of Sun Exposure in New Zealand

For the general population (excluding pregnancy and infancy) sun protection is recommended between September and April, especially between 10am and 4pm. Between May and August some sun exposure is important. Sunbeds should always be avoided.

Current

Primary Prevention of Skin Cancer

Although skin cancers are a largely preventable group of diseases, they are Aotearoa/New Zealand’s most common type of cancer. The Cancer Society supports seven recommendations to reduce the incidence of skin cancer.

Current

End of Life Care

The Cancer Society acknowledges the diverse range of strongly-held personal and professional beliefs on euthanasia and assisted dying. There are varying views from spiritual, religious or cultural perspectives which may not be necessarily shared within groups or cultures.