SunSmart: the national skin cancer prevention campaign

This year the SunSmart campaign will focus on young people and avoiding sunburn.

Sunburn or intense sun exposure in childhood increases the risk of skin cancer later in life and the majority of our lifetime sun exposure happens before the age of 20. A recent study highlighted that there is a different perception of “risk” at home than on holiday and children are less protected whilst playing in the garden than when they are on the beach.

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and small behavioural changes such as avoiding the strongest sun, appropriate use of sun cream and wearing of hats and long clothes can lead to a considerable decrease in personal risk.

In 2003 the World Health Organisation recommended that no one under the age of 18 should use a sun bed. New legislation which will come into force next year (in England and Wales) will prevent the use of sun beds by under 18’s and include a ban on unmanned coin operated salons.

For further information on how to enjoy the sun safely, sun beds, guidance on developing a school sun protection policy and free downloadable teaching resources visit http://www.sunsmart.org.uk/