NHS urging people in Wiltshire to protect their skin during heatwave
Reminder suncream isn't just for when you're abroad!
With the high temperatures and strong sun continuing people across the South West are being asked to protect themselves from the sun and skin cancer.
As more people are likely to be holidaying in the UK, NHS bosses are highlighting their #CoverUpMate campaign.
Anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors should:
- Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- Make sure you never burn
- Cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses
- Take extra care with children
- Use at least factor 30 sunscreen
Over the past ten years Cancer Research statistics show that the rate of melanoma skin cancer among men in the UK has increased by almost 50% and 30% for women.
Experts fear this may lead to a rise in skin cancer cases, as studies show even those who use sunscreen or limit time in the sun abroad don't do so in the UK.
NHS England South West Medical Director Michael Marsh said:
"Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer which can develop slowly over time. When I see people with sunburn they usually say, 'But I just stayed in the UK'.
"Yet they've been out all day on the beach without sunscreen and this is something you would never do abroad.
"There are some simple steps we can take to lower the risk of skin cancer and be sun safe during a summer of staycations."