A LOCAL MP has told youngsters in Warrington to be on “red alert” and learn more sun safety from cancer experts.
Warrington North MP Helen Jones attended a special “Molewatch” clinic at Westminster, where she given a stark 
warning about the risks sunburn possesses.
Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign mascot, a giant mole, handed out information about skin cancer to MPs urging them to get the message out to their constituents that sunburn can double the risk of the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
The MP said: “I was shocked to learn that malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is now the most common cancer in young adults aged between 15 and 34.
“It’s important for young adults and parents to take steps to protect their own skin and that of their children by covering up, spending some time in the shade and using sunscreen.
“Attending Cancer Research UK’s Molewatch Clinic really highlighted for me how important it is to enjoy the sun safely and to avoid burning. Even minor sunburn causes permanent damage beneath the skin.
“Anyone with concerns about a particular mole, freckle or patch of skin that has changed over a period of weeks or months should make sure they speak to their GP without delay.”
The campaign are now issuing “smart” advice to people taking advantage of the hot weather: S – spend time in the shade between 11 and 3, M – make sure you never burn, A – aim to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sun glasses, R – remember to take extra care with children, and T – Then use 15+ sunscreen.
Caroline Cerny, Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign manager, added: “There are more skin cancer deaths in the UK than in Australia, even though Australia has more cases of the disease. In many cases people get sunburnt when they are just out and about in the sun and not deliberately sunbathing. It’s so easy to get ‘caught out.”
“Rates of malignant melanoma have significantly increased in the last 25 years. But the majority of skin cancers could be prevented by being SunSmart, so it’s very important to know how to enjoy the sun safely.”
Picture shows Helen Jones with mascot Giant Mole
