Be SunSmart

With all our sunshine, South Africa has a very high rate of skin cancer. While most skin cancers are treatable and also highly preventable, many South Africans do not take the necessary precautions to reduce the risk of skin cancer. GEMS encourages everyone, young and old of all skin types, to be SunSmart not only during the holidays, but all year round.

Common myths
Be SunSmart and know the facts. The following are common misconceptions many have:

• The sun is only dangerous in summer or on a hot day.
• Tanning is safe, as long as I don't burn - there is no such thing as a safe tan.
• Sunscreen will protect me completely from the harmful effects of the sun's rays.
• One or two cases of sunburn won't result in skin cancer.
• People with darker skins are not at risk for getting skin cancer.
• Sunbeds are a safer alternate to obtain a tan.

Lower the risk of skin cancer
People of all ages and skin types should:

• Avoid direct sunlight between 10am and 3pm. Stay in the shade or under an umbrella as much as possible/
• Wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats and UV protective clothes/swimwear.
• Wear sunglasses with a UV protection rating of UV400.
• Always apply sunscreen regularly (SPF 20 - 50) according to skin type.
• Avoid sunbeds and sunlamps.
• Spot the spot - check your skin carefully every month by following the ABCDE rules.

The ABCDE warning signs

• Asymmetry - a mole or mark with half unlike the other (not symmetrical).
• Border irregularities - scalloped/poorly defined edges. Commom moles are smooth and have even borders.
• Colour changes - tan, black, brown, red, white, blue. Common moles are usually a single shade of brown or black.
• Diameter - larger than 6mm.
• Evolve - grows bigger and becomes more prominent.

Get screened

• Go to your local CANSA Care Centre for screening with their FotoFinder Dermoscope machine - be sure to make an appointment as the machines ‘roam' between care centres.
• If you are concerned about symptoms, please do not wait - contact your Care Centre, doctor or dermatologist immediately for a consultation.
• Monitor the harmful UV-rays you are exposed to with a CANSA UV-Smart Armband that turns darker in colour as the UV-rays intensify. Each shade of colour gives protection recommendations you can follow in order to avoid sunburn.

Sources
Skin Cancer Awareness Month (SunSmart) 2014/15: http://www.gov.za/skin-cancer-awareness-month-sunsmart-201415
Be SunSmart: http://www.cansa.org.za/be-sunsmart/