05/08/2025
‼ SKCIN were asked to contribute to an article published by The Sun today addressing anti-SPF supporters and misinformation - here’s what we had to say:
“The rise in anti-SPF supporters, driven by misinformation on social media is a mammoth concern. This damaging content is influencing a younger generation who are highly susceptible to sun damage and is further fuelled by tanning trends and tan acceleration products. Sadly, such misinformation is without doubt going to cost lives.
As a charity that has worked tirelessly for almost 20 years now to raise awareness of prevention following the loss of a loved one to melanoma, this is incredibly sad to witness.
The facts are clear. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK and it is 90% preventable by using sun protection measures. The use of SPF 30+ broad spectrum sunscreen when the UV Index is 3 or above is a critical prevention method as well as covering up with clothing, including a sun hat and sunglasses–and seeking shade during peak UV hours.”
Despite the above - there are also a number of other factors contributing to the consistent rise in skin cancer cases…
“Firstly we are still seeing the affects of a generation that knew-little-to-nothing about skin cancer causes, risk factors and prevention measures up until relatively recently. Skin cancer can take many years to develop and that risk increases with age due to cumulative exposure and damage done in our younger years. The boom in package holidays is still taking its toll and with an ageing population, the ongoing rise in cases is inevitable.
Secondly, the increase in awareness of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer is thankfully driving people to seek medical attention, resulting in more cases diagnosed in their early stages.
However, the increase in sunbed use (particularly in the younger generation) is also sadly fuelling the rapid rise in cases–highlighting the important role of awareness and education in combatting this largely preventable disease”.
🧡 Education is key! Prevention and early detection SAVES LIVES!
