Driven by Cansa November is marked Sunsmart Skin Cancer Awareness Month and the public are urged to become more aware of the dangers of the sun as skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in South Africa.

Our youth should take special precaution as two blistering burns before the age of 18, can dramatically increase the risk of getting skin cancer later in life.

 Here is a list of skin cancer myths that might have given you a false impression:

·         People with darker skins are not at risk for getting skin cancer.

·         Sunscreen will protect me completely from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.

·         The sun is only dangerous in summer or on a hot day.

·         One or two burns can’t cause cancer.

 Cansa’s top tips on reducing your cancer risk are:

·         Stay out of the sun between 10am and 3pm.

·         Wear protective clothing and thickly-woven fabric hats with wide brims.

·         Wear sunglasses with a UV protection rating of UV400.

·         It’s important to know the best SPF for your skin type; use sunscreen with an SPF of between 20 and 50 and 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.

·         Cansa’s Seal of Recognition logo (CSOR) 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.

·         Look out for the expiry or manufacturing date as products usually expire two years after manufacture, however, no product should be used once opened after a year.

·         Avoid sunbeds and sunlamps.

·         Do monthly mole checks and go for regular screening.

 Always seek medical advice as soon as possible when concerned about a particular spot on your skin.

Check your skin carefully every month and ask a family member or friend to examine your back and the top of your head. TB.