Could Sunscreen Cost Increase Skin Cancer Risk?

Melanoma Focus, in a survey of 2,000 adults, found that 50% of people thought sunscreen was too expensive, while 67% said they would use it if it weren’t so expensive.

It was also found that 10% of people do not use the protective SPF cream because of the price.

The charity, which provides expert advice and support to patients, carers and healthcare professionals, is now calling on the government to eliminate VAT on the products to lower costs and make them more accessible to everyone.

The #MelanomaAwarenessMonth We urge you to do so #KnowYourSkin.

Just two steps can help reduce your risk of developing melanoma skin cancer:

✅ Check your skin and contact your GP if you notice any new or changing moles or lesions
✅ Protect your skin from the sun with SPF 30+ pic.twitter.com/syt2ERvvs1

— Melanoma Focus UK (@focusonmelanoma) May 15, 2023

Around 4,000 cases of melanoma skin cancer says that in England every year deprivation meets deprivation cancer research.

Speaking to the PA news agency, Susanna Daniels, CEO of melanoma focussaid: “Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and the deadliest form of skin cancer.

“Wearing a high SPF sunscreen is an extremely important safety measure to protect against it.

“We know that people are under increasing pressure finance But right now, with rising skin cancer rates, using sunscreen should be a high priority.”

Daniels explained that eliminating VAT on sunscreen products “would be a cost-effective way to reduce the overall incidence of skin cancer and could help save lives.”

What is melanoma?

According to the NHS Website: Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body.

The main cause of this particular type of skin cancer is ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun and is applied to the skin sunbeds.

The NHS also says a number of factors can increase your risk of developing melanoma, including your age and pale skin, a large number of birthmarks and a family history of skin cancer.

May is Melanoma Awareness Month

May is Melanoma Awareness Month and Melanoma Focus aims to raise awareness of the early signs of skin cancer.

Daniels commented, “We also urge people to be aware of the symptoms of melanoma and seek medical help if they notice anything suspicious, particularly changes to a birthmark or lesion.”

“Early detection leads to a higher cure rate and more treatment options.”

Accordingly The guarda UK Treasury spokesman said: “We are aware of the impact that rising prices are having domestically, which is why we are providing significant support, worth an average of £3,300 per household.” This includes cutting energy bills, increasing benefits and the provision of direct cash payments.

“High SPF sunscreens are on the NHS prescription list for certain conditions and are already exempt from VAT when dispensed by a pharmacist to these patients.”