Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. Over 80% of skin cancers are caused by UV radiation from the sun’s light rays (and tanning bulbs in sunbeds). Sun damage can be caused from sunburn, or develop over a long period of time. People with a history of sunburn or overexposure to the sun in childhood also have a greater risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers.
Skin cancer: What are the symptoms to look out for? Skin cancers can look very different and the symptoms can vary. Common symptoms of skin cancer include a sore or an area of skin that: Doesn’t heal within 4 weeks Looks unusual Hurts, is itchy, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks For more advice on what to look out for, visit Cancer Research UK.
Outdoor workers and sun exposure Protection from UV rays is important all year round, not just during the summer. UV rays can reach you on cloudy and cool days, and they reflect off of surfaces like water, cement, sand and snow. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, it is important to protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun. As one of the professions with the biggest portion of time spent working outdoors, 44% of occupational melanoma deaths can be attributed to those in the construction sector.
Prevention It is recommended that colleagues adapt the 5 'S' approach to sun safety.
SLIP
on sun protective clothing - clothing can be one of the most effective barriers.
SLOP
on sun cream - with a minimum of SPF30 20 minutes before initial exposure and re-apply every two hours or more frequently if sweating heavily.
SLAP SLIDE SHADE
on a hat and neck protection - where possible choose a hat with ear and neck protection. on some sunglasses – a pair of high-quality wrap-around sunglasses are best in order to protect the eyes. from sun where possible and take occasional breaks from the sun, or work in a shaded area wherever possible, especially from 11am-3pm.
If you are worried about skin cancer, you can find more information here on thing such as the risk factors and signs and symptoms. If you have any of the symptoms listed on the signs and symptoms page, or you notice any changes to your skin, it's important to have them checked by your GP.
SkinCheck Our benefits partners, Check4Cancer, recommend staying skin safe by checking your skin, including moles, once a month. If you are concerned about the appearance of your skin or a mole, get them checked by your GP. You can also book a SkinCheck with a skin specialist today via Check4Cancer. To purchase this through salary sacrifice, please log into your My Barratt Benefits platform. This check is also available to the spouses, partners and children of employees over the age of 18 years.
What's coming in August? In August, we look at grief, loss awareness and financial planning.
For information, tools and links on many areas of health and wellbeing please click here to visit our My Barratt Benefits website. For any queries or suggestions, please contact handw@barrattplc.co.uk.