MP calls for greater skin cancer awareness

Friday, 09 December 2011

While sunbathing may be the last thing on your mind at this time of year, recent statistics from Skin Cancer UK have shown that Southport suffers a 20% higher-than-average rate of the rarest and most dangerous form of skin cancer – malignant melanoma.

The condition, which kills an average of just over five people every day, is on the rise and Skin Cancer UK have warned that more needs to be done to combat the disease.  Amongst the most vulnerable are those with pale skin living in sunnier areas of the country, with many towns on the UK’s coasts seeing greater-than-average rates of affliction.

Local MP John Pugh attended an event in Parliament this week designed to raise awareness of the condition.  He commented:

"The growth of this terrible condition is extremely worrying and I would ask all Southport people to ensure that they take the proper precautions when enjoying the sun.  Our constituency is especially vulnerable as it, believe it or not, ranks as one of the sunnier areas in the region and it is particularly important that people don’t take any unnecessary risks.

"I would like to compliment NHS Sefton however on their excellent work in fighting the condition, with the mortality rate of those diagnosed with malignant melanoma below the national average and spending per head on those diagnosed with the disease well above the national average.  I would like to applaud NHS Sefton for their excellent work in fighting the disease.

"However, more needs to be done in terms of prevention.  Simple steps can be taken to protect yourself when enjoying the sunshine, helping to reduce the risks of developing the condition.  We all need to take some measure of responsibility for our own well-being.  I am also looking to the government to take additional measures to ensure our children are properly educated about looking after themselves in the sun and hope to see action on this issue."