Episode 59: Busting myths about skin cancer

Following last year’s episode on protecting your skin and staying safe in the sun, Taking Control of Cancer returns to tackle one of the biggest challenges in skin health: misinformation. In this episode, host Steve Bland is joined once again by Dr Tom McLeod, Clinical Lead for the Skin Expert Reference Group at North East London Cancer Alliance, and Rosie O’Dea, Project Manager in Diagnosis & Treatment at NHS North East London Cancer Alliance. 

They are also joined by Claire Milne from Full Fact, bringing expertise in tackling health misinformation and helping people separate evidence from myth.

Last year in north east London alone there were 1,721 case of skin cancer diagnosed, making it the most common cancer. Therefore, it is more important than ever to understand what you can do to help prevent it.

We hear advice about sunshine, tanning and sun cream everywhere, from social media and celebrities to family tips passed down through generations. But how much of it is actually true? How do you sort fact from fiction?

The episode also comes at a timely moment. A Guardian feature highlighted growing concerns around the rise of “extreme tanning” among younger people, fuelled by social media trends, influencers and misinformation online. 

The article explored how some young adults are actively tracking UV levels to maximise sun exposure, using sunbeds and even experimenting with unregulated tanning products despite well-established links to skin cancer. 

Against this backdrop, the podcast asks an important question: how do we cut through myths and misinformation to help people make informed choices about protecting their skin?

Whether you’re a sun worshipper, someone who burns easily, or simply unsure what advice to trust, this episode will help you make sense of the facts — and feel more confident about staying safe in the sun.

Listen to our previous podcast on skin cancer: https://www.nelcanceralliance.nhs.uk/podcast/episode-24-protecting-your-skin

Find out more about staying safe in the sun: https://www.nelcanceralliance.nhs.uk/LDN-get-sun-set

Download and have a listen now:

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YouTube: https://bit.ly/441cZYF

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