Be Sun Smart!
Be Sun Smart
Did You Know?
Even though 81.8 % of people are aware that too much exposure to the sun is the main cause of skin cancer, only 44.1% use SPF 15+ sunscreen, less than a quarter (24.3%) cover up, and just 13% spend time in the shade
Latest research suggest using sunbeds increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma by 9% and the risk of squamous cell carcinoma more than doubled
Research also estimates that sunbeds cause about 440 new cases of melanoma in the UK each year and just under 100 deaths. Although small numbers these are totally preventable
Melanoma is a cancer that usually starts in the skin, either in a mole or in normal-looking skin
More than 10,600 people in the UK are diagnosed with melanoma each year
In the UK melanoma is the most common cancer in people aged 15–34
Source Cancer Research – for further info please click here
Sun Awareness – Mole Checking
There are three types of skin cancer and all look different. The following ABCD-Easy rules show you a few changes that might indicate a “melanoma” which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
As skin cancers vary, you should tell your doctor about any changes to your skin, even if they are not similar to those mentioned here.
Asymmetry – the two halves of the area may differ in shape.
Border – the edges of the area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show notches.
Colour – this may be uneven. Different shades of black, brown and pink may be seen.
Diameter – most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. Report any change in size, shape or diameter to your doctor.
“Having half your life ripped away from under your feet just doesn’t seem fair. The best part of our days snatched away.”
Yes, the sun is a good source of Vitamin D but any form of sunburn is never good for you.
Early diagnosis is key. Melanoma is not necessarily a death sentence so please, please remember…