As one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in the UK, new cases of skin cancer are being diagnosed at an increasingly alarming rate. Despite this common occurrence, skin cancer is largely preventable. In fact, it’s one of the most preventable form of cancer today.

One of the most promising strategies for reducing the prevalence of skin cancer is to educate the public and increase awareness about this condition and the crucial measures for prevention. This is the driving force behind Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

History of Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin Cancer Awareness Month began with the purpose of getting more people involved with the prevention of skin cancer through the protection from the sun’s harmful rays. The event is planned and executed through the cooperation of a number of different organisations, including Melanoma UK, Skcin, Melanoma Focus and other skin cancer charities in the UK.

Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin Cancer Awareness Month is a big deal! It’s all about making sure everyone knows how to keep themselves safe from skin cancer. Here are a few tips to help you lower the risk:

• Prevent sun exposure by staying in the shade and wearing protective clothing (SLIP)
• Avoid indoor tanning, which can also cause skin cancer
• Wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays to protect the eyes (SLIDE)
• Use broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher on the face, neck, ears and other exposed skin (SLOP)
• Wear a broad rimmed sun hat for extra protection (SLAP)
• Re apply sunscreen on a regular 2 hourly basis
• Avoid spending too much time at peak UV times (around 11.11am till 3.00pm) when the sun is at its highest. (SEEK SHADE)

Get Involved

There are so many different ways to help raise awareness and indeed much needed money for the charities listed above:-

• Sponsored events (runs, walks, yoga, cycle rides, etc….)
• Garden Parties with raffles
• Educational get togethers
• Talking about it!
• Skin checks
• Challenges

If you would like to raise money for any of the charities named in this article then please contact them directly and see how best you can help them.

On a personal note I am embarking on a series of roadshows up and down the UK with Jewsons with the desire to help educate those people that work outdoors all day with no real understanding of exactly what Skin Cancer can do – IT CAN, AND DOES KILL!!!

There are other events that I’m going to be involved with during the next few months including the Tatton Flower Festival and promoting SunSafeWorkplaces which is a national accreditation process for companies/employess where work related UV exposure can, and does cause higher incidence rates.