Importance of sun cream cannot be overstated this summer

AS the sun begins to shine brighter and the days grow longer, it is essential to remember that May isn’t just about blooming flowers and warmer weather—it is also Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month.

This month-long campaign serves as a vital reminder of the importance of sun safety and early detection in combating the growing incidence of the two types of skin cancer in the UK – melanoma and non-melanoma.

Non-melanoma refers to skin cancers which develop in the upper layer of skin and usually do not spread to other parts of the body.

This type of cancer usually develops in areas of the body which are most exposed such as the face, shoulder, and upper back.

Melanoma usually starts as a mole and can spread to other parts of the body which is why it poses a serious risk. Overexposure to the sun or UV light are the main causes of all skin cancers.

In the UK, there is a growing concern over the increasing rates of skin cancer diagnoses.

There are now more than 16,000 new cases of melanoma and 155,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer each year in the UK. Sadly, of the 16,000 new cases of melanoma, over 2,000 will prove fatal.

I was one of the fortunate ones who survived and, whilst all I am left with is an impressive scar, the outcome could have been so very different had I not been aware of what signs to look out for and caught the cancer early.

Some 86 per cent of melanoma cases can be prevented by taking simple measures such as applying sun protection of SPF 30 and above, whether the sun is shining or not.

Unfortunately, 1 in 10 people are not wearing sunscreen at all because it is too expensive. That is why, in Parliament, I have pressed the Government on several occasions to remove VAT from highfactor sunscreen and make it more affordable for everyone.

On Tuesday, I asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt, as to when the Government intends to abolish VAT on high-factor sunscreen.

Whilst the Chancellor did not commit to this policy on the floor of the House of Commons, I will not give up and will continue to lobby the Chancellor until VAT is removed from high factor sunscreen.

This Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, I am urging readers to undertake the following sun safety measures to help reduce their risk of getting skin cancer:

■ Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with protection of SPF 30 and above regularly, especially when spending time outdoors. This can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer.

■ Protective Clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and clothing that covers the skin. Doing so provides added protection against harmful UV rays.

■ Seek Shade: Limit exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during the peak hours of 10 am and 4 pm This can lower the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

■ Avoid Tanning Beds: The use of tanning beds increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, and should be avoided altogether.

■ Regular Skin Checks: Be vigilant about changes in your skin, including new moles or lesions. Promptly consult a GP or healthcare professional for evaluation which can lead to early detection and better outcomes.

If readers are at all concerned about their skin or have noticed changes to their moles or lesions, I would urge you to contact your GP or healthcare professional.

Many of these moles or lesions do NOT end up being anything serious, however, it is always important to be diagnosed early as early-stage melanomas are generally curable.

By prioritising sun safety and proactive skin health measures, we can collectively work towards a future where the incidence of skin cancer is significantly reduced, sparing countless lives from its devastating impact.

■ For more information about Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Month, visit Melanoma UK’s website at www.melanomafocus.org