Mims Davies supports Melanoma Awareness Month after experts raised concerns in response to the new data released recently by the charity Melanoma Focus which shows that 32% of British people reported rarely or never using sunscreen when in the UK and only 11% saying that they always use it.
86% of cases of melanoma are preventable, yet incidence is increasing and there are now more than 16,000 cases across the UK each year. Studies show more people dying of melanoma in the UK than in Australia.
It is vital that we are aware of the importance of sun-safety and follow that advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe. If you have noticed changes in yours or a family members skin, go to your GP immediately.
- The national charity Melanoma Focus has issued warnings after new survey data shows that 32% of UK adults don't use sunscreen despite most burning at least once per year.
- Only 11% say they always use sunscreen in the UK, dropping to 8% for males.
- Melanoma is on the rise in the UK and is the most serious form of skin cancer.
- Survey also finds that 28% of British people have used sunbeds, a known cause of melanoma.
Melanoma skin cancer is a serious and potentially fatal condition yet people in the UK often ignore the dangers posed by prolonged exposure to UV rays. 1 in 36 men and 1 in 47 women in the UK will be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in their lifetime. It is the deadliest form of skin cancer and is in the top five most commonly diagnosed cancers in the UK, killing 2,333 people per year. The most common reason for not using suncream is that people think that they will not burn.
Over the last decade, melanoma skin cancer incidence rates have increased by around a third (32%) in the UK. Rates in females have increased by more than a quarter (27%), and rates in males have increased by almost two-fifths (38%). It is expected to continue to rise.
Be smart and #KnowYourSkin
- During the summer months whether at home or abroad wear UVA and UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or above
- Avoid the sun in the middle of the day
- Wear protective sun clothing and UV protected sunglasses
For more information visit:
https://melanomafocus.org/about-melanoma/
https://melanomafocus.org/about-melanoma/sun-safety/sun-creams-information/