Skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the only cancers we can physically see developing in its early stages and if detected, diagnosed and treated early enough, almost all cases are curable.

NHS Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance's Be Skin Smart campaign was created so everyone can learn about:

  • the risks associated with UV exposure
  • how to prevent skin cancer
  • how to spot the early signs and symptoms.

Postcards, posters and mole tracking diaries

We have developed a range of materials including:

  • posters
  • postcards
  • a debit-card size foldout information card with a mole tracking diary, complete with handy ruler to measure your moles.

If you are holding an event or have a venue where you can display posters and give out postcards and wallet-sized information leaflets, please get in touch by emailing us at england.kmcanceralliance@nhs.net putting 'Be skin smart request' in subject header.

Stay sun safe

No matter the colour of your skin, staying safe in the sun reduces your chances of suffering from skin cancer.

There are some simple steps you can follow to be skin smart:

  • Avoid being in the sun from 11am to 3pm, the hottest part of the day.
  • Make sure you apply sun cream regularly and try never to get sunburn.
  • Your sun cream should have an SPF of at least factor 30, and a minimum of a four-star rating.
  • Wear a hat and stay covered up with suitable clothes and sunglasses.

Find out how to stay safe in the sun on the  Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance website.

The four main steps to follow to stay safe in the sun.

Check your skin

Make sure you regularly check your skin for new moles, or changes to existing ones. Know your ABCDEs when it comes to checking.

If you notice anything unusual, always contact your GP straight away.

  • A - Asymmetry: Both halves don't look the same.
  • B - Border: The mole has blurred or jagged edges.
  • C - Colour: The mole has more than one colour.
  • D - Diameter: Grows larger than 6mm.
  • E - Evolution: Changes size, shape or colour.

Instructions on how to check your moles for skin cancer