Sail 4 Cancer launches “Keep it in the Dark”.

Sail 4 Cancer are launching their latest initiative ‘Keep it in the Dark’ which will focus on one of the biggest cancer risks facing people today – skin cancer.  An educational campaign themed “Keep it in the Dark” is set to inform people of the risks they are taking and how to protect themselves against this potential killer.

With over 75,000 new cases diagnosed in the UK each year¹, skin cancer is 99% curable if caught early enough², however prevention is far preferable. Sail 4 Cancer is proud to have the support of Fat Face, Gill, Liz Earle, Neilson Active Holidays and Ullman Sails Eyewear who together have a whole range of kit which will help protect your skin from sun damage. Ranging from hats and UV protected clothing through to sun cream and sunglasses, all with a significant amount from each purchase benefiting Sail 4 Cancer and helping improve the quality of life for those living with cancer.

To find out more on how to protect yourself from the sun and to get your hands on some great kit visit the new site www.keepitinthedark.com.

Although the message is serious, the “Keep it in the Dark” campaign is seriously fun!  Watch out this summer for some truly wicked garden moles spreading the word and a competition that could see you winning some great new kit .

Sail 4 Cancer Chair of Trustees Graham Precey comments, “An understanding of skin cancer prevention is crucial, especially amongst sailors and other watersports enthusiasts.  The support we have received from our sponsors has been wonderful and shows just how strongly they all feel about promoting awareness of this disease which is potentially fatal and yet so easily preventable.”

The charity sought medical guidance from the Dermatology Department at Southampton University Hospital NHS Trust. “It is well documented that accumulative sun damage can result in the formations of skin cancer.  As outdoor sporting enthusiasts, the sailing fraternity are constantly being subjected to the sun’s rays.  A few simple precautions can minimise the risk… remember a suntan is not sexy, it often heralds the formation of thickened and wrinkly skin!” advises Denise Hancock, Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist Skin Cancer at the hospital.

For more information about Keep it in the Dark please see the website at www.keepitinthedark.com or www.sail4cancer.org or call 0845 408 1849.