Training and Q&A offered to highlight skin cancer risks

Hairdressers and message therapists are among professionals in Jersey being encouraged to take up training to spot the signs of skin cancer.

A limited number of places are available on the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Early Detection accredited programme.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Jersey, with non-melanoma skin cancers accounting for approximately 41% of all cancers diagnosed in Jersey between 2020 and 2022.  Rates here continue to be higher than the UK.

Public Health says around 90% of cases are preventable.

It is using this Skin Cancer Awareness Month to highlight simple sun safety steps:

• Protect skin from excessive sun exposure
• Never burn
• Check skin regularly for new or changing moles or marks
• Seek medical advice if any changes are noticed

Public Health is also working with charities Macmillan Cancer Support Jersey and Skin Cancer and Melanoma Awareness (SKCIN) to promote messages in schools and nurseries.

Primary schools and nurseries are encouraged to get Sun Safe Schools accreditation, while secondary schools have been invited to take part in a pilot project aimed at raising awareness among older students.

People who work in wellbeing and beauty sectors are being encouraged to take up funded places on a course to identify and signpost clients who should get checked out.

Chiropractors, osteopaths, hairdressers and barbers, beauty and massage therapists, physiotherapists and podiatrists are among those who are eligible and should email publichealth@gov.je for more information.

Dr Andrea Sanabria, Interim Director of Public Health said: “Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, but it is also largely preventable. Improving awareness of sun safety and supporting earlier identification of changes in the skin are important steps in reducing risk and improving outcomes.”

A free sun awareness seminar is taking place on Friday (15 May) at the Royal Yacht, starting at noon with a free lunch buffet.

Experts will explain the risks of UV exposure, how to recognise early warning signs and the importance of prevention and early diagnosis.

The afternoon will conclude with a public Q&A session featuring:

• Rachel Shorto - Macmillan Jersey’s service manager
• Dr Elizabet Gomes Dos Santos - Jersey’s consultant and service lead in Medical Oncology
• Dr Anna Kukula - Dermatology specialist
• Dr Maitiu O Tuathail – GP partner at Island Medical Centre and extended role in Dermatology at Jersey General Hospital
• Eloise Hamon - Public Health Registrar

Rachel Shorto, Macmillan Jersey service manager, said  

“By coming together, having conversations and improving awareness, we have the opportunity to save lives.”

Macmillan Jersey is encouraging islanders, community organisations and local businesses to attend the seminar, learn more about skin cancer prevention and help spread awareness across the island.

"Because when it comes to skin cancer, prevention really can make the difference."

Tickets are free and available now