| MP REMINDS SUNBATHERS TO BE S.M.A.R.T. THIS SUMMER |
| Friday, 12 June 2009 | |
 It's easy to forget about the burning power of the sun, especially after a succession of wet summers in recent years. However, after attending the annual 'Molewatch Clinic' at Westminster last week, local MP John Pugh is keen to alert people to the risks posed by sunburn, and make sure they remember to be S.M.A.R.T.
Malignant melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – is now the most common cancer in women in their 20s. Overall the disease kills around 2,000 people every year but rates are predicted to rise. MPs were urged to share their findings with all their constituents that getting a painful sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of this most dangerous form of skin cancer.  MP receives shining advice on sunbathing The MP revealed that he had recently had a keratosis (pre-cancer) removed and had recently had a family member diagnosed with a malignant melanoma. "People with my skin type are vulnerable even if like me they have neither the time nor inclination to sunbathe. It is scary how much the rate of skin cancer is rising. Early detection though is crucial.” John said “I was shocked to learn that experts believe binge tanning, usually on foreign holidays, is contributing to the alarming rise in this life-threatening disease. It’s vital for people to know that wherever they are, they need to take simple measures to protect their skin by covering up, spending time in the shade (especially between 11am and 3pm) and using at least SPF 15 sunscreen. Even minor sunburn can be a sign of permanent damage.” “Cancer Research UK’s Molewatch Clinic has underlined how important it is to enjoy the sun safely and to avoid burning.” Katy Scammell, Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign manager, said: “Whether abroad or at home this summer, don’t let sunburn catch you out. Use shade, clothing and at least SPF 15 sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn. “Melanomas can grow anywhere on the body so it’s crucial to check all areas of your skin regularly for any unusual changes, as the disease is much easier to treat when it’s spotted earlier. “Anyone with concerns about a particular mole, freckle or patch of skin that has changed over a period of weeks or months should make sure they speak to their GP as soon as possible.” Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign encourages people to know their skin type and use the UV index to find out when they need to protect themselves. It offers guidelines on how to be sensible in the sun:
Also report mole changes or unusual skin growths promptly to your doctor. For information on skin cancer and the Cancer Research UK SunSmart campaign visit: www.sunsmart.org.uk |