11/05/2026
Sun Awareness Week marks the start of a summer long campaign to raise awareness around sun protection and skin cancer, one of the most common cancers in the UK.
Remember, it's not just sunbathing that puts you at risk, but being in the sun without adequate protection. To guard against risks of skin cancer, practice sun safety by following the five ‘S’s below and never sunburn your skin:
- Suncream factor 30+ and 4 or 5 stars, apply 30 minutes before going outside and reapply regularly throughout the day
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Seek shade
- Say no to sunbeds
Make sure to self-check your body at least twice a year front and back for lesions (any lump, bump or flat mark on the skin) that stand out to you, have changed or have newly appeared. Check all sites including your scalp, between fingers and toes. To spot potential skin cancer, check the skin lesion/s for ‘ABCDE’ as per our post in March.
Our Private GPs at The Walcote Practice are able to undertake a full skin check with a dermatoscope - a handheld device using light and magnification to assess skin lesions. We can also discuss sun safety and preventative methods for reducing your risk of skin cancer.
To book a skin check, please call 01962 828715
