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April 26, 2021

Look after your feet in the sun!

It’s National Sun Awareness Week (3rd - 9th May). Run by the British Association of Dermatologists, this annual campaign is to raise awareness of skin cancer which can also occur on your feet.

Don’t forget to protect your feet!

Nowadays we tend to be much more careful about protecting our skin from the harmful rays of the sun. We don’t, however, always remember to protect our feet.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, many of us don’t realize that skin cancer can occur on the feet and often overlook applying sunscreen to them. They warn that skin cancer of the foot is becoming more common and can even be fatal if not caught early.

During a study, volunteers at a beach were given sunscreen and told they'd be evaluated on how well they used it. Even though they had every reason to be diligent about sunscreen application, researchers found that the participants rarely applied it to the tops of their feet.

When asked why, half of the participants said it was because they didn't want sand to stick to their feet.

While the sensation may be unpleasant, our feet are just as at risk as the rest of our body, especially if we are bare foot or wearing sandals or open-toed wide fitting shoes. So, lessen the risk and make sure you apply your sunscreen to your feet.

Cancer Research UK recommends applying two tablespoons of sunscreen every two hours when out in the sun in the UK. They also advise people to stay in the shade between 11:00 and 15:00 or to cover up when out in direct sunshine between these times.

Look after your feet in the sun!