On the top five highest danger zones (by region), the Mid North Coast is second only to Northern NSW in the areas with the highest incidence of melanoma in the state, with the central coast, Hunter/New England and northern Sydney rounding out the list.

On the nations top 30 melanoma red zones (by local government area), Coffs Harbour, although low on the list at number 28, is still experiencing an unacceptably high amount of melanoma cases. Locally, the highest ranked area on the top 30 list is Kempsey, at number 13.

"The Melanoma Red-Zones indicate the communities suffering significantly higher rates of melanoma than the rest of the state," Professor David Currow, chief cancer officer and CEO of the Cancer Institute NSW, said.

"Skin cancer follows the sun, so we are seeing an increase in melanoma where the ultraviolet (UV) levels are at their greatest along the coast of the state.

"The outdoor lifestyles we all enjoy, combined with a lack of action when it comes to sun protection and susceptible skin types creates a potentially deadly mix for every person across the state."

Dr Murray Govan of the Coffs Coast Skin Cancer and Wound care Clinic said that residents stand the best chance of avoiding melanoma by getting serious about sun protection and taking a few simple precautions.

"Protecting your skin from exposure to the sun is the most effective way to prevent skin cancer. The strength of UV radiation is highest in the four-hour period around 10am to 2pm, so try to plan your day to avoid open exposure of sunlight during these times if you can.

The Cancer Institute NSW estimates 4,158 people from all corners of the State will be diagnosed with life threatening melanoma in 2011.

For more information on staying safe in the sun, see www.cancer.org.au/sunsmart