Albion star backs safe sun message
Albion star Craig Mackail-Smith is backing a new campaign urging Brighton & Hove residents to stay safe in the sun as the heatwave continues
The Stay Sun Safe initiative launched this week by Albion In The Community and the NHS in Brighton and Hove will see staff and volunteers from the charity highlight ways for people to look after their skin in the sun and reduce their chances of getting skin cancer.
Over 600 cases of skin cancer are recorded every year in Brighton and Hove and cases of melanoma cancer – the most dangerous form of skin cancer – have doubled in the city in recent years. Nationally, there has been a significant increase in the number of young adults with skin cancer and it is now the second most common cancer amongst 18-35 year olds.
The Scottish international striker and Albion In The Community Health Ambassador said: “We are just asking people to remember a few simple things to protect their skin whilst they are out enjoying the sun: using a high factor sun cream, remembering to spend some time in the shade and wearing a hat and clothing can all help protect your skin from the sun and reduce your chances of getting skin cancer.”
Over 600 cases of skin cancer are recorded every year in Brighton and Hove
Dr. Bhav Shergill, Consultant Dermatologist, at Brighton General Hospital added: “It is really important that people know their skin and check it regularly for any changes such as new moles and changes in the shape, colour and size of moles. We are urging people who notice these symptoms to get them checked out by their doctor. It may not be skin cancer but if it is the chances of surviving are far greater if it is diagnosed early.”
Albion In The Community staff and volunteers will be handing out sun safety postcards and free sun cream at a number of upcoming city events including Pride and Sussex cricket matches in Hove. They will also be out in force at Albion’s pre-season friendly against Norwich City on 30 July.
If you would like to get involved in volunteering on the campaign email steve.cole@albioninthecommunity.org.uk
Top tips to stay sun safe in Brighton and Hove this summer and reduce your risk of getting skin cancer:
• Use sun cream (minimum of factor 30) and don’t forget to re-apply every 2–3 hours and after swimming
• Cover up in the sun.
• Wear cotton or linen clothing a hat and sunglasses
• Seek some shade from the sun, particularly between 11am and 3pm
Changes to look out for in moles and skin:
• Two halves of a mole with a different shape or do not match
• Blurring to the outside edges of a mole or moles that look ‘ragged’
• Changes in colour
• Increases in size
