- SLAP
ON AND COVER UP.
-
- Trust dermatology staff warn of the dangers of sun-related skin cancer.
Southport & Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust's dermatology staff are warning
people of the dangers of sun-related skin cancer. The message from the team,
who are based at the new dermatology unit in Ormskirk, is don't let the sun
spoil your fun!
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK, but despite
national campaigns to raise awareness, many people are still putting
themselves and their families in danger.
Consultant Dermatologist at the Trust, Dr Aamir
Memon, said:- "One of the biggest problems is that people don't think there is enough sunshine in this
country to put them at risk. We might not see as much as we'd like, but this
doesn't mean we don't need to take precautions. In at least four out of five
cases, skin cancer is a preventable disease. Over 1,000 people die from the
most dangerous form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, each year. We want
people to stay safe and if they have any concerns whatsoever, to seek
advice."
Essential skin cancer facts.
· Visible sunburn must be avoided by people of all ages. There is no such
thing as a healthy tan
-
- · Excessive sun exposure, particularly sunburn in the under 15s, is a major
risk factor for skin cancer in later life
- · People who develop skin cancer do not always have a history of deliberate
sunbathing. Those who have an outdoor occupation or take part in an outdoor
recreation (e.g. golfing, gardening or sailing) are also at risk
· A tan is a sign that damaged skin is trying to protect itself from further
harm. The protecting power of a tan is weaker than a mild sunscreen
Top sun safety tips.
· Avoid noon day sun between 11am and 3pm
· Seek natural shade in the form of trees or other shelter
· Use clothing as a sunscreen - including T-shirts, long sleeved shirts and
hats
· Use a high factor sunscreen
Check your moles.
Moles are checked using a seven-point checklist, which includes any change
in size, shape or colours.
Dr Memon added:- "We also look for any moles which are more than 6mm in
diameter, any inflammation, oozing or bleeding, itching or altered
sensation. If people notice their moles altering in any way, they should
contact their GPs as soon as possible."
-
- Southport Reporter
would also like to add this:-
-
- Did you know?
It's estimated that children receive 50% of their total lifetime sun exposure by the age of 18.
Sun burn is red, itchy and tender. If your child suffers, do the following:-
· Cover the skin with light clothing or a towel, move them indoors and encourage them to drink as much as possible.
· Apply cool compresses to affected areas.
- · Use calamine cream, or a menthol after sun or aloe vera gel to cool and reduce pain.
· When the itching has gone, use emollients (heavy moisturisers) to reduce sun damage.
· If blistering occurs, seek medical advice to avoid infection.
For more treatments of sun burn visit:-
British
Red Cross Society &
St
John Ambulance
