Summary
Children as young as five are learning about sun protection through a new program at schools in Kent, UK. The initiative aims to reduce skin cancer cases by teaching children how to protect their skin from UV exposure, a major cause of melanoma. This program is expected to become part of nationwide lessons by 2026.
Key Facts
- Children are learning to check UV levels and apply sunscreen properly.
- The program is currently being tested in Kent primary schools and will expand to all UK schools by 2026.
- Melanoma is a serious skin cancer linked to UV exposure, with cases expected to rise from 18,300 in 2021 to 21,300 by 2026 in the UK.
- Teaching sun safety when young can help prevent future skin cancer cases.
- Most melanoma cases are caused by exposure to the sun and sunbeds.
- "Safe tan" is a myth, as tanning means skin damage, according to experts.
- The ABCDE checklist helps check moles for signs of melanoma: asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving changes.
- Cancer Research UK emphasizes keeping kids in the shade during peak hours and using wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, clothing, and SPF 30+ sunscreen.
