Keep sun-safe this summer
We all know that we can’t trust English weather in the summer.
Last year, June was a complete washout and, so far this year, the summer season hasn’t been much better. So when the sun does make an appearance, we all rush outside to enjoy some well-deserved rays.
But sunbathing binges could be doing us more harm than good. More than 72,000 cases of non-Melanoma skin cancer are registered in the UK each year, making it the most common type of cancer. In fact, it is estimated that the actual number of people with non-Melanoma skin cancer in the UK is at least 100,000 a year, because this type of cancer tends to be under reported*.
More than 8,900 people in the UK each year are diagnosed with melanoma, which is the seventh most common cancer overall. It is the sixth most common in women and the tenth in men*.
Research suggests that sunburn definitely increases the risk of melanoma and that most skin cancers are caused by long-term exposure to the sun. Many cases could be prevented if people were more careful about protecting themselves in the heat.
If you burn in the sun, your risk is doubled and you are at more than average risk of Melanoma. Most at risk are the fair skinned, those who turn red and peel before getting a tan, people with lots of moles or freckles and those with a family history of skin cancer.
Because of the unreliability of British weather, people often set off on a two-week holiday abroad to enjoy some rest and relaxation and come back with that all important ‘healthy’ glow.
But experts tell us there is no such thing as a safe tan. The sun is at its strongest in the middle of the day, between 11am and 3pm, so whether you’re fair or dark skinned, protecting yourself during these times is essential, both in and outside the UK.
Suncreams, clothing, hats and sunglasses are all good ways to look after your skin in the sun. Research indicates that the only way to be absolutely sure of reducing skin cancer risk is to avoid overexposing your skin to the sun. Using a suncream is better than using none at all, but there is no guarantee that you can stay in the sun without burning.
Some people worry that they may not get enough vitamin D if they don't sunbathe and research warns that a lack of it could raise the risk of osteoporosis and brittle bone disease. However, you could make enough vitamin D long before the first signs of sunburn - a fair-skinned adult will make enough after only 15 minutes in the sun, two or three times a week.
Professor Roger Francis, from the National Osteoporosis Society Medical Board, said: "We are not advocating spending lengthy periods in the sun, as too much sun causes skin ageing and Melanoma.
"Furthermore, staying in the sun too long means that the body breaks down surplus vitamin D shortly after it is produced. Lying on the beach for two weeks will not top up levels for the rest of the year**."
And, as with any cancer, it is also vital that you make a habit of checking your own skin. If you find any abnormalities on the skin that don’t go away after four to six weeks, or existing ones that are getting bigger, you should seek medical help.
According to Cancer Research UK, whichever type of skin cancer is diagnosed, most cases are easily treated and cured.
Most of Westfield Health’s cash plans offer a consultation benefit, which provides money back towards the cost of diagnostic consultations, and people with higher levels of cover could also claim for treatment.
References:
* http://www.cancerhelp.org.uk/
© Westfield Health Insurance | 2008
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