Be smart and stay safe as the summer sizzles

There are around 14,600 new cases of melanoma skin cancer diagnosed in the UK each year. The risk increases with age and the more sunburn you have had. But however old you are, if you notice anything unusual on your skin, whether it is a mole or other patch of skin that’s changed, you should see your doctor. Treatment options will vary but if you catch it at an early stage, it can usually be successfully removed with a small operation. For sun protection that works best, use floppy hats, sunglasses and sleeved tops to cover up. No sunscreen is 100 per cent effective and so make it your last line of defence. Go for a product that offers at least SPF 15 and four or more stars. For more information on avoiding sun damage from Cancer Research UK, you can visit cruk.org/ownyourtone.