IN THE SUN
Too much sun can lead to skin cancer

The lighter your skin the greater the risk

Many of these deaths could be avoided

THE FACTS

• Some of the sun's energy is emitted as ultra-violet or UV radiation.
• It is now known that excess exposure to ultra-violet radiation can harm skin. The fairer your skin, the greater the risk of damage.
• Sunburn is particularly harmful for the skin and can increase your risk of serious skin cancer (also known as melanoma).
• A suntan is a sign of damaged skin. Suntanned skin will age faster and repeated or constant tanning will increase the risk of the more common type of skin cancer, non-melanoma (see below).

RECOGNISING SKIN CANCER
Skin cancer is the second most common cancer in the UK for example. There are ,vo different types related to sun exposure.

1. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the more common type. The symptoms are small lumps, like warts, which can itch and bleed. They are often found on the head and neck. Almost all non-melanoma skin cancers are curable if detected early. They are usually treated by simple, surgical removal.
2. Malignant melanoma can he cured if found early enough and treated quickly. It shows itself by a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new abnormal-looking mole. Malignant melanomas, unlike ordinary moles, grow and change shape. They are often patchy, with dark and light areas, and an irregular order. They may itch and bleed. If you notice any of these symptoms you must see a doctor immediately. They may not be signs of cancer, but, if they are, early detection will improve your chance of successful treatment.

HOW TO REDUCE YOUR RISKS

• Treat the sun with respect – never let your skin burn.
• Young skin is particularly vulnerable - protect babies and small children with loose clothes and hats.
• Make use of the shade and avoid any exposure in the middle of the day.
• Sunscreens can help protect your skin, particularly the most exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck and hands. However sunscreens do not make acquiring a tan safe. A tanned skin is a damaged skin.
• Avoid sunbeds unless following medical advice.
• To avoid ageing the skin, avoid getting a tan. If you must have a tan, make sure it's only a slight one, especially if you are fair.
• Don't forget your eyes – wear sunglasses.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUNSCREEN
A sunscreen should only form part of your plan for protecting your skin in the sun. Other measures, such as wearing appropriate clothing, i.e. loose fitting but tightly woven material, staying in the shade as much as possible and avoiding harsh midday sun are all important. Sunscreens are particularly useful to people with fairer skins. All sunscreens have an SPF rating. This stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a measure of how much a sunscreen protects your skin from the sun. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.

• Which SPF is best for you?
• An SPF of less than 8 will give you little protection.
• Most people, unless they have naturally brown or black skin, should use SPF 15 or more.
• If your skin is naturally brown or black, sunscreens are usually unnecessary as you have good natural protection. However, moisturising cream may be useful as the sun dries out all types of skin.