News

Sun Worshipping Scots At Highest Risk Of Skin Cancer

3 July 2009

Unhealthy sunbathing habits are to blame for the fact that Scots have the highest risk of contracting skin cancer in the UK.  Research from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, Scottish Office, released today (Friday 3 July 2009) reveals that Scots are acting dangerously in the sun by using moisturisers, baby lotion and chip fat instead of high factor sun lotions.  With a heatwave continuing to soar across the country RPSGB is urging Scots to make sure they don’t fry this summer.

The research follows hot on the heels of data revealed by Cancer Research UK which found that cases of malignant melanoma are on the rise and increasing faster than for any other cancer.   Rates among Scots are much higher (11%) than the UK average .  The findings indicate that binge tanning is likely to be the main cause of the rise.

With their fair and often freckly skin Scots are much more likely to burn easily.  A survey of over a thousand Scots carried out by YouGov showed that four out of ten (39%) Scots have experienced blistered or peeling skin after spending too long in the sun.  Despite this many people are failing to pay attention to the serious warnings of over-exposure to UV rays.  One in five Scots admit to binge tanning, and 25% admit to using sun lotions below the recommended guidelines.  Worryingly, four out of ten sun and sunbed worshippers have often used suntan enhancing products and even experimented with their own versions including cooking oils and moisturisers in a bid to develop a quicker, darker tan.

But, the real risk comes from a false belief that the Scottish sun is not as strong as the rays abroad.  With more people expected to holiday at home, to save money this summer, and during a heatwave, the RPSGB is calling on all Scots to start paying attention to the warnings of the potentially fatal damage of over-exposure to the sun. 

“This is a serious issue,” commented Laura Wilson, spokesperson for the RPSGB in Scotland and community pharmacy manager.  “I am worried that people still think the warnings about the sun do not apply to them.  In Scotland we have higher rates of melanoma than in Australia. Scots tend to think they do not need to use sun creams at home but people must respect the sun at all times and make sure they use a recommended sun protection cream.”

May Croan (21) from Edinburgh was just one of the Scots to learn the hard way this summer.  Whilst relaxing on a local beach and desperate to get a tan she applied a moisturiser which led to her getting second degree burns and needing hospital treatment.  At the same time her identical twin Emma was enjoying the sunshine abroad with the protection of high factor sun cream, which left her with a golden glow.

With temperatures soaring over the last month pharmacists have seen a rise in the number of people seeking advice on sunburn treatments.  Laura Wilson says it’s really easy to protect against sun damage and is asking people to seek advice from their local pharmacy.  She explains:

“Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals and experts in medicines.  They are in an ideal position to give advice on how to prevent sun damage, make sure people get the right protection for their skin and know when and how to apply the right amount safely.  They can also advise on aftercare treatments if people are suffering from sunburn. Pharmacies are extremely accessible, typically located on the high street and open at convenient times.  With no appointment necessary and with many offering access to private consultation rooms there really is no excuse not to seek advice.”

While malignant melanoma is now the most common  cancer in the 15-34 age group  it is also one of the most preventable.  The RPSGB advises anyone who suspects signs of a mole changing shape, colour or texture to seek medical advice.

Five ways to healthy summer skin
• Apply a high factor sun protection, minimum 15 SPF, that has passed UV tests, re-apply often and especially after swimming
•  Even if using very high factor sun cream when sunbathing or outside on particularly sunny days always limit your time in the sun as sun cream does not give total protection
• Spend time in the shade during the hottest part of the day, between 11:00am and 3:00pm
• Wear a wide-brimmed sun hat and sun glasses with lenses that provide full UV protection
• ‘Faking it’ is the safest way to a healthy glow. 

Ends
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Notes to editors:

1.   Source: Cancer Research UK http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/cancerstats/types/skin/incidence/
2. Research for RPSGB was carried out by YouGov plc with a sample of 1000 Scottish people between 22 June – 24 June 2009.  Full results are available on request.
3. The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain is the professional and regulatory body for pharmacists in England, Scotland and Wales. It also regulates pharmacy technicians on a voluntary basis, which is expected to become statutory under anticipated legislation.

The primary objectives of the RPSGB are to lead, regulate, develop and represent the profession of pharmacy. The RPSGB leads and supports the development of the profession within the context of the public benefit. This includes the advancement of science, practice, education and knowledge in pharmacy. In addition, it promotes the profession’s policies and views to a range of external stakeholders in a number of different forums.

Following the publication in 2007 of the Government White Paper Trust, Assurance and Safety - The Regulation of Health Professionals in the 21st Century, the RPSGB is working towards the demerger of its regulatory and professional roles. This will see the establishment of a new General Pharmaceutical Council and a new professional body for pharmacy in 2010.

For further information about the RPSGB visit www.rpsgb.org.