Sun Awareness Week—cover up and stay sun-safe

This week is Sun Awareness Week and a new survey today reveals almost one in three women won’t be wearing sun tan lotion when they go abroad this year.

According to a poll by Macmillan Cancer Support of 1,500 women across the UK aged 18 plus, even on a sunny day, 29% of women in London don’t wear protective lotion when they’re abroad in a hot country. This is regardless of the increased risks of skin cancer.

Macmillan Skin Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist, Eileen Andrews, will have a stand in the main hospital atrium on Friday 4 May, 10am–3pm, to promote staying safe in the sun.

Eileen says: “I follow the general advice which is don’t get burnt, stay out of the midday sun, use shade, be aware of your skin type and its response to sun and use SPF 50 sunscreen. Using sunscreen at the same time as wearing appropriate clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved tops in closely-woven cotton or linen is important. And knowing what’s right for you is crucial in being able to spot anything unusual.

“For example if you can see any of your moles growing or changing, or you have a new mole that you’re not quite sure about, you should bring it to a professional’s attention.”

Skin cancer can be as dangerous as any other types of cancer. If you have any concerns or questions visit www.macmillan.org.uk/skin or call Macmillan Cancer Support on 0808 808 00 00.