Be SunSmart and take care of your skin
As part of its SunSmart Health Campaign during the summer season, CANSA encourages everyone, young and old, to take responsibility and control of their health to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
South Africans are urged to join forces in the fight against cancer by taking charge of your skin and being aware of the dangers of the sun.
Be proactive and help detect skin cancers early through regular spot-the-spot examinations and having your moles checked.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in South Africa. Be aware of the risk factors for skin cancer and follow easy preventative measures to reduce your risk.
Top tips on reducing your risk:
* Stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm. Stay in the shade or under an umbrella as much as possible.
* Wear protective clothing and thickly-woven fabric hats with wide brims. Avoid caps that leave the neck and ears exposed.
* Wear sunglasses with a UV protection rating of UV400.
* It’s important to know the best Sun Protection Factor (SPF) for your skin type. Use sunscreen with an SPF of between 20 and 50; preferably SPF 30-50 for fair to very fair skin.
* Always apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside and reapply at least every two to three hours.
* The CANSA’s Seal of Recognition (CSOR) logo appears on approved sunscreen products and is a guarantee that the manufacturers of these UV protective products have complied with the strict set of criteria developed by CANSA.
* Avoid sunbeds and sunlamps.
* Do monthly mole checks and go for regular screening.
