Although not always the case, a lot of exposure to strong sunshine is something that can cause skin cancer.

Different people have different skin types. Some are more prone to burning and damage (which might trigger skin cancer) than others. People who have fair skin, blue eyes and fair, or red, hair generally are more sensitive to the effects of sunshine and need more protection.

Some general bits of advice are:

• never allow your skin to burn
• if you are in strong sunshine wear clothing made from cotton or natural fibres, as these have a closer weave and offer more protection
• protect your face and neck with a wide-brimmed hat
• always wear sunglasses in strong sunlight
• stay out of the sun in the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm
• use a high protection factor sunscreen (20spf or higher) whenever you are exposed to strong sunshine.

In the UK the sun is less strong than in many other countries and is usually only likely to be harmful during the summer months. Although it is helpful to be aware of the sun during other seasons there is probably less need to protect yourself. Nowadays during the summer the weather forecasts on the television will usually give warnings if high levels of solar ultraviolet (strong sunshine) are likely and often advise on the maximum time that should be spent in the sun.

Certainly the fact that you have been advised to be careful about exposure doesn't mean that you have to avoid the sun altogether, or avoid going out when it is sunny. It is just a matter of taking sensible precautions to avoid any prolonged exposure or over exposure, in order to lessen the risk of burning and skin damage.