| Dundee’s parks and beaches are magnets for families in the current heatwave, but it is important not to let the welcome appearance of the sun go to your head, as exposure to UV light increases the risk of skin cancer, as well as prematurely ageing skin.
The sun can be just as damaging here as abroad, and young people are most vulnerable. As a result, all children and adults, whether they tan easily or not, should be protected.
Skin cancer is the most common form of the disease in the UK. Around 100 patients in Tayside are affected by malignant melanomas each year, and almost 30 will die as a result. A further 1200 non-malignant skin cancers are removed by NHS Tayside each year.
Issuing some timely tips on how to stay safe in the sun, Paul Ballard, NHS Tayside’s Deputy Director of Public Health, said, “The number of people getting skin cancer is rising each year at an alarming rate, so it’s extremely important to be safe in the sun — both on holiday and in the UK.
“Adults and children should always cover up, slap on the sunscreen often and try to stay in the shade between 11 am and 3 pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.”
The sun doesn’t need to feel hot to damage your skin, and it is important not to be fooled by a cool breeze or light cloud.
Other tips include covering up with loose-fitting clothing and wearing a hat that covers the ears and neck, using a high factor sunscreen, with a sun protection factor of 15 or above, and choosing sunglasses that comply with the British Standard.
It is also important to provide plenty of drinks to avoid dehydration and, if taking children in the car, to make sure there is enough ventilation and that they are never left unattended. |
