PUBLISHED
10:15 10th July 2013
by Joel Essex
Albion striker Craig Mackail-Smith is backing a new campaign urging Brighton and Hove residents to stay safe in the sun as the heatwave across the city and the south coast continues.
The Stay Sun Safe initiative launched this week by Albion in the Community and the NHS will see AITC staff and volunteers highlight ways for people to look after their skin in the sun and reduce their chances of getting skin cancer.
Over 600 cases of skin cancer are recorded every year in Brighton and Hove and cases of melanoma cancer - the most dangerous form of skin cancer - have doubled in the city in recent years. Nationally, there has been a significant increase in the number of young adults with skin cancer and it is now the second most common cancer amongst 18-35 year olds.
The Scottish international and Albion in the Community health ambassador said, "We are just asking people to remember a few simple things to protect their skin whilst they are out enjoying the sun.
"Using a high factor sun cream, remembering to spend some time in the shade and wearing a hat and clothing can all help protect your skin from the sun and reduce your chances of getting skin cancer."
Dr. Bhav Shergill, consultant dermatologist, at Brighton General Hospital added, “It is really important that people know their skin and check it regularly for any changes such as new moles and changes in the shape, colour and size of moles. We are urging people who notice these symptoms to get them checked out by their doctor.
"It may not be skin cancer but if it is the chances of surviving are far greater if it is diagnosed early.”
Albion in the Community staff and volunteers will be handing out sun safety postcards and free sun cream at a number of upcoming city events including Pride and Sussex cricket matches in Hove. They will also be out in force at Albion's pre-seaon friendly game against Norwich City on Tuesday July 30th.
If you would like to get involved in volunteering on the campaign, email steve.cole@albioninthecommunity.org.uk.
Original article