The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) is currently conducting a national campaign on skin cancer called Sun Awareness. This initiative, overseen by the BAD’s Skin Cancer Prevention Committee, comprises leading medical professionals with expertise in skin cancer, vitamin D, and public health messaging.
Sun Awareness is BAD’s yearly effort to raise awareness about skin cancer. It’s a dual-focused campaign, offering advice on both prevention and detection. Firstly, it aims to promote regular self-examination for skin cancer. Secondly, it educates people about the risks of sunburn and excessive tanning, discouraging the use of sunbeds due to their association with skin cancer risks. In addition to public education, BAD has been advocating for legislation to regulate the sunbed industry and continues to push for further and improved regulation.
This year’s Sun Awareness Week will take place from May 1st to May 7th, 2024
Staying safe outdoors is relatively simple, with the most crucial step being the application of sunscreen. Wearing a hat or covering your skin also helps prevent harmful sun damage from overexposure.
What are the dangers of sun exposure?
Overexposure to the sun’s rays can lead to serious harm, including two common types of skin cancer: non-melanoma and melanoma, the latter being the most dangerous and deadly. This underscores the importance of protecting your skin and seeking shade to stay safe in the sun.
Who is at risk?
Sun damage affects everyone’s skin, as evidenced by last year’s statistics: 35% of people in the UK experienced sunburn at least once, with 28% of them getting burnt more than three times during the year.
So, this year, remember to apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, seek shade, and spread awareness about sun safety and the risks of overexposure during Sun Awareness Week!
