Skin Cancer Awareness Month – May 2025

Skin Cancer – Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of skin cancer?

The three most common types are:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most frequent type, usually appearing as a pearly bump or red patch.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): May look like a scaly red sore or wart-like growth.
• Melanoma: The most serious form, often appearing as a new mole or a change in an existing one.

What is the main cause of skin cancer and am I at risk?

The leading cause is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. You’re at higher risk if you:

• Have fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
• Have a history of sunburns or excessive sun exposure
• Use sunbeds
• Have many moles or a family history of skin cancer

What can I do to prevent skin cancer?

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Avoid tanning beds
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Stay in the shade, especially between 11am–3pm
• Get regular skin checks, especially if you’re at high risk

How can I be safe in the sun?

• Seek shade during peak UV hours
• Wear UV-protective clothing
• Apply sunscreen at least 15–30 minutes before going outside
• Reapply every 2 hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating

How should I properly apply sun cream?

1. Use about a shot glass (30ml) for full body coverage.
2. Don’t forget often-missed spots: ears, neck, scalp, tops of feet, and back of hands.
3. Reapply every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

Watch for:

• A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or colour
• Sores that don’t heal
• New growths or lesions that itch, bleed, or crust
• Any asymmetry or irregular borders in moles

How much SPF do I need?

Use SPF 30 or higher, and ensure it offers broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays). For longer periods outdoors, especially during holidays or summer, SPF 50 is ideal.