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Sun Safety - don't get a Scary Tan

From Barcelona to Buenos Aires, head here firstSkin cancer prevention is a cause particularly close to our hearts here at Scarytan and it is our aim to raise awareness among young travellers of the dangers of overexposure to the sun and how to protect your skin.

Protect Yourself

People of all ages and skin types need to protect themselves from the sun's rays and for travellers it is very important to remember some basic guidelines to minimise the sun's effects while enjoying their travels.

  • Shade - stay out of the sun between 11am - 3pm when the sun is at its strongest.
  • Clothing - clothing can act as a barrier between the sun's UV rays, however some are better than others.   Check for a UV protection factor on some clothing.
  • Hats - some of the most commonly affected areas of skin damage and cancer are the neck, ears, face, lips and nose.   A good hat will help to significantly reduce the amount of UV rays reaching these areas.
  • Sunglasses - most sunglasses have good UV protection, but always check the level of protection when buying them.   Wrap-around sunglasses offer better protection.
  • Sunscreen - sunscreen should not be regarded as all you need to stay safe in the sun.   It should be used with the measures mentioned above.   Factor 15+ should be used as a minimum and should be reapplied regularly especially after swimming.

Check your skin regularly for new or changing moles - this could be an early warning sign.   Early detection increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

Facts & Figures

In the UK in 2000, 62,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer were reported, however this is thought to be closer to 100,000.   Nearly 7,000 people were diagnosed with more aggressive malignant melanoma and this is on the increase.   Over 2,000 die each year. (Source: Cancer Research UK)

Incidences in Australia are much higher with 374,000 people being diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer and 8,800 with melanoma each year.   However awareness is good and therefore treatment is sought early.   Nevertheless, over a 1,000 people die each year. (Source: The Cancer Council Australia)

Further Information

For further information and advice, please visit:

Cancer Research UK - http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/sunsmart

The Cancer Council Australia - http://www.cancer.org.au/sunsmart

 

Disclaimer:
While we make every effort to ensure our content is accurate and up to date, Scarytan accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of information. Scarytan will not be held liable for any loss or damage as a result of use of this information.