Sun-related risks: understanding them better to protect yourself better

cp-risque-solaire-180717.pdf

Published on 18 July 2017

After a long, harsh winter, the joy of enjoying the sun’s benefits again should not make us forget its dangers. That is why, as summer approaches, the National Cancer Institute and Santé publique France want to remind everyone of the essential preventive measures needed to enjoy sunny days safely. They also debunk the myth that tanning bed sessions prepare the skin for the sun. This is false; artificial UV rays only add to the sun’s UV rays, thereby increasing the risk of cancer.

An infographic to remind you of preventive measures

See

This year, to remind people of the key steps for preventing sun-related risks, the National Cancer Institute and Santé publique France are using a simple, easy-to-remember infographic.

An infographic that highlights the four essential steps to take: wear a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, covering clothing; apply sunscreen regularly; and avoid sun exposure between noon and 4 p.m.

Raising awareness among specific population groups

This campaign aims to raise awareness primarily among the most at-risk groups, namely children and people most exposed to UV radiation due to their professions: farmers, construction workers, sailors, as well as anyone engaged in outdoor activities, whether for work or leisure.

Practical advice is also provided for people participating in outdoor sports and activities, with a particular focus on protecting children as effectively as possible.

see

Preventing the risk of skin cancer

see

Exposure to sunlight is the main cause of skin cancer. There are two main types:

Carcinomas are the most common type of skin cancer. They generally occur after age 50, on exposed areas of the body (face, neck, shoulders, forearms, legs, etc.). They are most often caused by excessive and chronic sun exposure.

Skin melanoma is much rarer than carcinoma but is the most serious form of skin cancer due to its "high metastatic potential," meaning its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body.

Early detection for better treatment

see

Treatments for skin cancers are all the more effective when detected early. The infographic also highlights the main signs to recognize melanoma.

View the full infographic here

Learn more:

For everyone: Visit the "UV Exposure" section Access the "Skin Cancer Screening" section Download the skin cancer prevention brochure

To raise awareness and remind the public of key sun protection measures, Santé publique France has made the website www.prevention-soleil.fr available to the general public

For healthcare professionals: View all practice support tools Access the "Early Detection of Skin Cancers" section