Warning: Skin Cancer - Beware!

The CWU has launched a new "Sun Smart & Skin Safe" campaign and is issuing a warning about the risk of skin

cancer and dehydration to outdoor workers.

Indeed, as the UK continues to get Barbecued in the sweltering heatwave with sizzling conditions expected to continue and temperatures soaring, those venturing out during lunch times are also at risk.

New figures released by Cancer Research UK reveal that for the first time the number of men who have died from melanoma skin cancer in the UK has exceeded 1000, a 31% increase in the last decade.

As a result the CWU has linked up with Cancer Research, the Health Education Authority, the NHS and HSE to launch a SunSmart & SkinSafe campaign focused on members working outdoors.

Some basic facts illustrate the extent of the risk:

• There are now over 70,000 new cases of skin cancer every year in the UK which has more than doubled since the 1980's.
  
• There are around 2000 skin cancer deaths every year, with the most serious type, malignant melanoma responsible for the majority of the fatal cases, around 1,700.
  
• Men are more likely to die from skin cancer than women, partly because they are less likely to take warning signs as seriously as women tend to do.

The majority of skin cancer deaths can be prevented if the simple precautions set out in the SunSmart code are followed and with the support of Branch es and Safety Representatives we want this campaign to raise awareness of the code.

Campaign Posters and leaflets are available and are being distributed by Cancer Research UK in partnership with the NHS and the Union is producing a new  "CWU Sun Smart - Skin Safe Fact Card For Outdoor Workers" to be distributed to Branch es.

The SunSmart campaign website offers practical information on the changes people need to look out for when checking their skin and can be accessed at  www.cancerresearchuk.org/sunsmart   

Download the full CWU Ltb here