Sun tans? A sign of health, say parents

ALMOST FOUR out of 10 parents mistakenly believe that a sun tan is a sign of good health, research suggests.

A new poll for the Met Office and the NHS England #CoverUp Mate skin cancer campaign found evidence of apparently relaxed attitudes to children and sun exposure.

The poll found 34 per cent think a sun tan helps build resistance to the sun, while 37 per cent think a sun tan is a sign of good health, such as offering a “healthy glow”.

Some 70 per cent said they think it is normal to get a tan in summer; however, 56 per cent knew that sun tans are a symptom of sun damage and are best avoided.

One in 20 parents said they have allowed their children to use sunbeds, including the parents of very young children, while 7 per cent have encouraged their child to use a lower-factor suncream to get a nice tan.

One in 10 parents have also suggested their child takes their top off to avoid tan lines.

Listing all the points at which they apply suncream or a sun hat, 56 per cent of parents said on any summer day when their child will be outside, 59 per cent said on hot days and 21 per cent said when their child turns pink.

A fifth apply sun cream when their child says they need it, and 39 per cent said they do so whenever the family is abroad.

Clare Nasir, Met Office presenter and meteorologist, said: “As a sun-savvy mum, the findings are really worrying. Protecting against skin cancer isn’t something parents should leave to chance.”

Nigel Acheson, NHS England South region medical director, said: “It’s important that parents take extra care to protect their babies and children.

“Their skin is much more sensitive than adult skin.”