John Leech MP Highlights Sunburn Threat of Skin Cancer

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 1st Jul 2008

John Leech MP Highlights Sunburn Risk of Skin Cancer

As the good weather continues, Liberal Democrat MP for Manchester Withington, John Leech, attended Cancer Research UK's molewatch clinic in Westminster last week to learn about the increasing threat of skin cancer in young people.

John Leech said: "I was shocked to learn that the most serious form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, is now the most common cancer in young people aged between 15 and 34."

"It is important that we enjoy the sun, but that we do it safely by covering up, spending time in the shade and using sunscreen."

Cancer Research UK's SunSmart campaign urges the public to recognise the fact that sunburn can double the risk of the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

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Notes to editor:

1. It is vital that people are aware of any changes to their skin and go to a doctor if a mole changes in any way. This is particularly essential for those who are fair skinned or have a number of moles already.

2. There are more skin cancer deaths in the UK than in Australia, despite Australia having more cases of the disease.

3. Rates of malignant melanoma have significantly increased in the last 25 years. The main risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to sunlight. Over 1,800 people in the UK die from malignant melanoma.

4. The SunSmart campaign promotes the use of the UV index:

Spend time in the shade between 11 and 3;

Make sure you never burn;

Aim to cover up with t shirts, hats and sunglasses;

Remember to take extra care with children;

Then use factor 15+ sunscreen