Torbay Council’s Public Health Team is encouraging residents and visitors to consider the impact of sun damage this Sun Awareness Week.

This year’s Sun Awareness Week will take place from Monday 9 to Monday 16 May. The team are encouraging residents to help raise awareness about skin conditions caused by sun damage.

Melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK and is caused by exposure to UV rays for prolonged amounts of time. Those with fair skin and hair, lots of freckles and a past family history of melanoma are most at risk.

With the summer just around the corner there are a few things you can do to lower your chances of Melanoma and other sun related problems:

• Using sunscreen and apply regularly particularly after swimming or sports
• Wearing a sun hat and sunglasses
• Staying out of the sun at the hottest times of the day and staying in the shade
• Avoiding the use of sunbeds and sunlamps
• Regularly checking moles and freckles to notice any changes.

For more information on Sun Awareness Week visit Sun Awareness Week Opens in a new window website.

For more information on melanoma and the risks of sun damage visit the NHS Choices Opens in a new window website.