Jetting off to a warmer climate this winter? NHS Devon says stay safe in the sun
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NHS Devon has issued a set of tips to remind people who are off to the sun this winter to protect their skin.
There are almost 250 cases of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, and 40 related deaths every year in
Skin cancer is the fastest growing cancer in the
Virginia Pearson, NHS Devon’s director of public health, said: “People sometimes forget to protect themselves when they go on a sunny holiday in the winter. They may be tempted to ‘binge-tan’ to make the most of the sun. But getting a painful sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.”
“The best way to ensure you enjoy a sunburn-free holiday is to pack loose cotton clothing that will keep you cool and protect your skin, take a sunhat to shade your face, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and use sun protection of at least factor 15.
“So my message is to enjoy your holiday and don’t let sunburn ruin your trip.”
Seven tips on staying safe in the sun:
- Work out when the sun is highest in the sky. This is the middle point of the day between sunrise and sunset. The sun's rays will be strongest around this time so you will need to take extra care in the sun.
- Know the shadow rule. When your shadow is shorter than you are tall, you need to take extra care to protect yourself.
- Don't forget your hat, sunglasses and cover up clothing. This is particularly important if you're going to be out and about in the middle of the day.
- Put sunscreen on before you go outside. Keep it with you at all times, apply it generously, and top up regularly.
- Act like a local. Eat meals out of the sun and have a siesta or seek shade in the early afternoon.
- Take extra care with children.
- If you do get sunburned then cover up and stay out of the sun completely. Drink plenty of fluids and see a pharmacist for advice.
For more information, go to: www.sunsmart.org.uk or www.swpho.nhs.uk/skincancerhub
