Protect your lips with sun cream

Almost 40% of people in Liverpool do not apply suntan lotion to their lips and could be at risk of mouth cancer by not doing so.

A survey sponsored by healthcare cash plan provider Medicash and conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation discovered that there is still a lack of awareness when it comes to cancer and protecting skin in the sun. If people are jetting off on summer holidays or are lucky to get sunshine in the UK, they still need to be protected.

Sue Weir, chief executive of Medicash says: "Research shows that over-exposure to the sun can increase the risk of cancer of the lips. It is therefore essential to use a good protective sun cream or lip balm with a high SPF (sun protection factor) number whether holidaying abroad or in the UK. It is also advised to get checked out by a healthcare professional if any sores or lumps appear on the lips and do not heal."