Brits 'aware of sun safety but could know more'

Britons going on holiday are becoming more aware of the need to remain safe in the sun, it has been claimed.

Cancer Research UK has commented that the SunSmart campaign, which highlights several factors involved in enjoying the sun safely, has had an impact on the UK's population.

The campaign offers a different piece of advice for every letter in the word 'smart'.

It states that people should Spend time in the shade between 11:00 and 15:00 local time; Make sure they never burn; Aim to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses; Remember to be extra vigilant with children; and Then use over factor 15 sunscreen.

Ed Yong, information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: "Research has shown that the SunSmart campaign has increased people's awareness of the importance of enjoying the sun safely.

"But awareness does not always translate into changing behaviour. There is still much to be done in encouraging people to act on what they know."

Mr Yong added that people should still take protective measures when the sky appears cloudy as the UV Index can still be high.

The charity posits that a history of sunburn increases the chance of getting melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.