Skin cancer experts hit the streets to urge the public to stay safe this summer
Skin cancer specialists have hit the road to speak upon the dangers of too much exposure to the sun without adequate protection.
In an effort to raise awareness about the effects of the sun on the skin, skin cancer nurse specialist at Poole Hospital, in Dorset, Juliet Hatley, was among a number of experts hitting the street last week to enlighten the general public as part of a national awareness campaign.
The advice given highlighted the astonishing fact that, sadly, 12,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, with the best forms of protection being wearing sunglasses, brimmed hats, keeping your clothes on and using sun cream with a factor no less that 30 which should be reapplied every two hours.
On protecting oneself from harmful sunrays, nurse, Hatley, said: “The two most important messages for sun protection are don’t get burnt and don’t get a tan.
“People should pay particular attention to moles on their skin and check regularly for any changes in size, colour and shape as well as symptoms such as itching or bleeding, or patches of skin that feel scaly, bleed or develop a crust and which do not heal. Prompt assessment by the GP is crucial for detecting and treating skin cancer,” the expert continued.
With regards to checking your skin for any signs of irregularities, Hatley went on to say that
for those with sensitive skin, including babies and toddlers, the best protection is to stay covered and keep out of direct sunlight.
So before you head out in your caravan this summer, make sure you take everything you need with you to protect you and your loved ones against the dangers of the sun, wherever your caravan takes you.
