Be SunSmart
Enjoy the sun safely
Race for Life can be great fun when the sun’s shining and the weather’s great but it can be easy to get caught out by sunburn. Unfortunately Cancer Research UK is not able to provide participants with sunscreen and other protection on the day so it’s important to be prepared for your event.
Make sure you enjoy the sun safely when preparing for and taking part in Race for Life. Don’t forget to cover up with a sunhat, a T-shirt with sleeves and apply plenty of sunscreen.
Tips for enjoying the sun safely
- Avoid being out for long periods in strong sun around midday - spend some time in the shade between 11.00am and 3.00pm
- Wear cool, loose clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
- Use at least factor 15 sunscreen with a high star rating – the higher the better - on any skin that's not covered and apply it generously and regularly
- If you are out in the sun remember to drink plenty of water to rehydrate.
What causes skin cancer?
Too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or sunbeds is the most important preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Incidence rates of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, have more than quadrupled over the last thirty years in Britain.
Some people are at increased risk of developing skin cancer, including those with fair skin that burns easily, lots of moles or freckles, a history of sunburn, red or fair hair, and/or a personal or family history of skin cancer. These people should take extra care to protect their skin in the sun.
Find out more about skin cancer and enjoying the sun safely.
Gang up on cancer and enter Race for Life
Cancer, we’re coming to get you. Join in this year’s Race for Life and show cancer who’s boss. Come along and run, walk, dance or sponsor - together we will bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.
