If you’re visiting the New Forest Show this month, stay safe in the sun and get a free educational mole check.
The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) will be at the show in New Park, Brockenhurst, on 28, 29 and 30 July, offering visitors a free skin check demonstration with an expert dermatologist.
Supported by skincare brand La Roche Posay, the BAD roadshow will give advice about how to protect your skin from sunburn, raise awareness on how best to check your skin and educate the public on how to enjoy the sun safely. Look out for the BAD stand situated near the main entrance to the show.
One of the key messages from BAD is if you’re worried about a changing mole or area of skin, get it checked out by your GP. If your doctor is concerned, they will refer you to see a dermatologist, which is a free NHS service.
Skin cancer incidence continues to rise in the UK and more than 250,000 cases are newly diagnosed every year. Malignant melanoma, the most deadly form of the disease, is the fastest rising common cancer and causes more than 2,000 deaths in the UK each year.
Unfortunately the New Forest has one of the highest rates of malignant melanoma in England. But most cases of melanoma are curable if detected early enough, and nine out of ten cases of skin cancer are preventable if you follow simple measures:
- Use sunscreen factor 30+ with a high UVA rating
- Apply sunscreen generously and frequently
- Wear a hat and cover up
- Seek shade between 11am – 3pm
- Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight
- Check all your skin and tell your doctor about any changes to a mole or area of skin
New Forest District Council portfolio holder for Health and Leisure, Councillor James Binns, said: “The New Forest is a wonderful place to spend time outdoors, but take care as over-exposure to the sun can potentially lead to skin cancer.
“If you’re visiting the New Forest Show, please take a few minutes to visit the BAD stand and get a free mole check. I would also encourage people to regularly self-examine so they can detect any signs of skin cancer early and see their GP quicker. This could save lives.”
For further sun safety information visit www.bad.org.uk/for-the-public/sun-awareness-campagin
