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Health Development
Sun Awareness
Cases of skin cancer have increased steadily
over recent years. Exposure to sunlight is the main cause of the
disease. Skin cancer is largely preventable. You can reduce
your risk by making relatively small changes to the way you
behave when its sunny.
In 2006, Havant Borough Council took part in four road shows to
promote sun awareness. We saw over 500 people and provided
free skin checks and gave residents advice and information about
preventing skin cancer. Some people are more at risk than
others, they typically have
- fair skin,
- lots of moles or freckles
- family history of skin cancer.
In order to protect yourself and your
family, we recommend the following.
Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm.
This is when the sun is at its strongest and you are more
likely to burn. Getting sunburn can double your risk of skin
cancer
Keep covered up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses.
This is especially important if you have young children as
their skin is very delicate. Sunscreen is not enough
when the sun is at its hottest. Wherever possible, keep
young children out of the sun altogether.
Use factor 15+ sunscreen.
Anything below that factor will not provide adequate
protection. Apply sunscreen generously and reapply
often.
If you notice any changes in the size, texture or
shapes moles, or if you experience bleeding from a mole,
contact your doctor.