New research from Australia is offering a hopeful glimpse into the future of melanoma prevention and it begins with something as small as a mole. A series of long running studies tracking almost 4,000 children in Queensland over 25 years has revealed children are showing declining mole counts and have 50% fewer moles than children in the 90’s. This trend, driven largely by improved sun safety behaviours, could translate to a significant drop in melanoma risk for the next generation.
The Brisbane Twin Nevus Study, one of the world’s longest-running skin health cohort studies, followed 3,957 children, primarily 12 year old twins and their siblings, from 1992 to 2016. The study by QIMR Berghofer highlights the average number of moles on children’s bodies fell by 47%, dropping from 87 in 1992 to just 46 in 2016. This decline represents both smaller and larger moles, critical markers for melanoma risk.
Why does this matter? Mole count is considered one of the strongest predictors of lifetime melanoma risk, especially in pale skinned populations exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Children with higher mole counts face a substantially increased risk of developing melanoma as adults. Children showing declining mole counts could reduce the lifetime risk of melanoma.
Researchers believe the most likely cause is a sustained reduction in sun exposure before age 12, a critical period for mole development. Across multiple analyses, improvements in sun safe behaviour accounted for almost the entire drop in mole numbers.
These behavioural changes could be linked to Australia’s iconic “Slip, Slop, Slap” campaign and subsequent national sun safety initiatives, which encouraged:
Researchers note that these public health efforts have measurably changed how families protect children from the sun, setting the stage for long term reductions in melanoma cases.
A complementary analysis published in the British Journal of Dermatology further supports these findings. The report highlights a consistent average annual mole reduction of around 2% per year, firmly concluding that the trend is not explained by changes in ethnicity, skin type, or measurement variation. Instead, early life reductions in UV exposure appear to be the key protective factor.
This reinforces an important message: prevention works, and it begins in childhood.
For parents, caregivers, and communities, the takeaway is clear:
sun protection in early life is one of the most powerful tools we have to reduce melanoma risk.
How Melanoma Patients Australia Is Here to Support You
The latest research brings hopeful news for future generations—but Melanoma Patients Australia remains committed to supporting every person affected by melanoma right now. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, in treatment, caring for someone, or living with longterm impacts, we are here for you.
If you or a loved one is affected by Melanoma and needs support, Melanoma Patients Australia provides a wide range of free services including:
Like this blog? Head to Melanoma Patients Australia News & Events to read more.
Melanoma Patients Australia recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Australia, and we acknowledge, respect and embrace their continued connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging.
We recognise, value and celebrate diversity and act in the spirit of inclusion.
