The Donna Annand Melanoma Charity donates 500 bottles of suncream to volunteers in Jersey
To mark Melanoma Awareness Month, a Jersey charity has donated 500 bottles of suncream to volunteers who are working outside.
Donna Annand Melanoma Charity (DAMC) has given them to volunteer groups who are helping manage queues outside shops and are delivering essential food, products and services to those in need.
What is melanoma?
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer which affects the pigment producing cells (melanocytes), and often appears as a new or changing mole.
It is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and is one of the most common forms of cancer in young adults aged 25-29.
Using suncream can significantly reduce a person's risk of developing melanoma. There is currently no cure for it.
The DAMC is reminding people that the risk of developing melanoma increases as the temperatures and UV Index climb.
Following Stay At Home government guidelines, the DAMC has started a children's stay safe drawing competition. It asks for children to include the #staysafe rainbow and Alan the Mole.
Children and families are invited to share their drawings on the DAMC Facebook page.
What can I do to protect myself when outdoors?
Wear clothing that covers shoulders and provides a barrier to sun exposure
Wear a hat that provides protection to the face, ears and neck
Wear sunglasses
Apply sunscreen, preferably SPF 30+
The charity says people should make sure they continue to check their skin on a regular basis for any changes in their moles.
What is the ABCDE of melanoma?
A - Asymmetry - where one half of the mole is not the same as the other halfB - Border - the mole has irregular ragged or blurred bordersC - Colour - the mole has a variation of colour and pigmentation throughoutD - Diameter - the diameter of the mole is greater than 6mmE - Evolving - changes in the mole
The DAMC's key message is 'Prevention, Protection and Early Detection!'