The Rise of Skin Cancer Operations

Consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Mr. Animesh Patel, has stated that the number of skin cancer operations he performs is increasing annually. As the plastic surgery lead for head and neck cancer reconstruction at the Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, he has seen a significant rise in the number of patients requiring skin cancer removal. Mr. Patel attributes this rise to the growing awareness of the dangers of excessive sun exposure.

• Mr. Patel performs over a thousand skin cancer operations each year.
• The majority of his patients are individuals who have spent a considerable amount of time in the sun, often during their childhood.
• He treats patients of all ages, from children to pensioners, emphasizing the importance of sun protection regardless of age.

The Dangers of Sun Exposure

Mr. Patel stresses the need for caution, even for families not holidaying abroad, due to the potential for hot spells in the UK. He advises parents to take extra precautions when their children are outdoors, particularly during peak sun hours. The risk of skin cancer is not limited to fair-skinned individuals; Mr. Patel has treated patients of all ethnicities and skin types.

Prevention is Key

Mr. Patel emphasizes the importance of prevention over treatment. He advises people to take the following measures to protect their skin:

• Wear suitable clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Use broad-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and regular reapplication of sun cream.
• Stay hydrated and seek shade when the sun is strong.

“I have removed skin cancers from patients of all ages, children to pensioners, so please take care whatever your age.”

— Mr. Animesh Patel

Understanding Sun Protection

Mr. Patel recommends that people consult the NHS website for guidance on sun protection. The NHS website provides excellent information on the principles of sun safety, including the importance of regular reapplication of sun cream, especially when swimming. He also emphasizes the need to stay hydrated and seek shade when the sun is strong.

Staying Safe in the Sun

Mr. Patel provides the following tips for staying safe in the sun:

• Apply sun cream regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Seek shade when the sun is strong.
• Wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants.

Conclusion

Mr. Animesh Patel’s message is clear: sun protection is crucial for preventing skin cancer. By taking the necessary precautions, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing skin cancer. As a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Mr. Patel has seen firsthand the devastating effects of skin cancer. He urges people to take sun protection seriously and to consult the NHS website for guidance. By working together, we can prevent skin cancer and promote sun safety.