Summer Alert on skin cancer

Michael Connarty MP today warned local 18-30s about the dangers of burning in the sun after learning more about sun safety from experts at Cancer Research UK.

The Linlithgow & East Falkirk MP attended the annual ‘Molewatch Clinic’ at Westminster this week where he was given a clear warning message about the risk posed by sunburn.

Malignant melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer – is now the most common cancer in women in their 20s*. Overall the disease kills around 2,000 people every year but rates are predicted to rise. MPs were urged to share their findings with all their constituents that getting a painful sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of this most dangerous form of skin cancer.

It is vital to be aware of any changes on your skin, say experts from Cancer Research UK. The charity advises anyone who notices a change in the size, colour or shape of an existing mole or patch of skin to have it checked out by a GP – especially if they are fair-skinned and/or have lots of moles or freckles.

Michael said “I was shocked to learn that experts believe binge tanning, usually on foreign holidays, is contributing to the alarming rise in this life-threatening disease. It’s vital for people to know that wherever they are, they need to take simple measures to protect their skin by covering up, spending time in the shade (especially between 11am and 3pm) and using at least SPF 15 sunscreen. Even minor sunburn can be a sign of permanent damage.”

“Cancer Research UK’s Molewatch Clinic has underlined how important it is to enjoy the sun safely and to avoid burning.”