WEST DORSET: A new survey says Dorset residents could be at greater risk of skin cancer by not keeping safe in the sun.

The results, released by LEO Pharma as part of the ‘Know Your Skin’ campaign, suggests nine out of 10 people in Dorset spend time gardening but of those nearly half, 44 per cent, say they never, or rarely, apply SPF 30+ sun cream.

Three in 10 say this is because they forget to apply it and over a third because they don’t think it is necessary.

Four in 10 Dorset residents surveyed admitted they take more care of their skin abroad than when at home, despite the UK having enjoyed a lot of sunshine this summer, while 53 per cent said they don’t do anything to protect themselves when sunbathing or out and about in the sun.

Those who have noticed changes to their sun-exposed skin are unfortunately reluctant to do anything about it, with 42 per cent choosing to ignore signs of damage in the hope they will go away. Sun damage includes dry or scaly patches of skin, which can indicate solar keratosis (SK), a condition that confers an increased risk for non-melanoma skin cancer.

Over 60 per cent of the Dorset residents asked had never heard of SK, characterised by rough patches of skin that can develop following prolonged exposure of unprotected skin to sunlight.

Oliver Letwin, MP for West Dorset, who is supporting the campaign, said: “There is a real lack of awareness in our area about the risks associated with over-exposure to UV light, and this needs to be addressed.

“While it can be easy to forget about the dangers of the sun, this shouldn’t be the case. Just because the sun isn’t shining that doesn’t mean it isn’t there. I urge everyone living here to be savvy, check their skin for changes, and seek support from a healthcare professional if they do find anything unusual.”

Campaign supporter Dr Jibu Varghese, consultant dermatologist at Dorset County Hospital, said: “The damage that the sun can cause is by no means a secret but this survey suggests that many people living in Dorset aren’t taking the information on board – and I’ve seen that the incidence of skin conditions is on the rise as a result.

“One of these conditions is solar keratosis, which is caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight and can. In a small number of cases, lead to non-melanoma skin cancer.

“The sun doesn’t discriminate, so whether you live in Dorset or Dubai, it’s important that you check your skin for changes. If you do have any concerns or need advice then visit your GP.