tErrors, swimming pools, seaside… France are taking advantage of the gradual lifting of health restrictions related to the COVID pandemic and… the sun.

«
people have to live, but we find it important to remember the advice of photoprotection », points to Luke Sulimovic, president of the National Union of Venereological Dermatologists (SNDV), on the occasion of Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection Week.

Paradoxically, “
Although almost everyone knows that excessive sun exposure can be harmful, very few people protect themselves in practice. », he insisted.

No, there are no UV cabins
ready »No skin in the sun, and the best protection«
This is not sunscreen, this is clothing protection, no exposure between noon and 4 pm, wearing a hat and sunglasses », summarizes the doctor.

In addition to a relaxation of alertness to face the dangers of the sun, dermatologists also fear an increase in severe cases due to late diagnosis and treatment, followed by frequent episodes of confinement.

If exact figures are not yet available on the duration of restrictions linked to COVID, dermatologists asked by SNDV have riled up more patients who have postponed or canceled their consultations, saying they were diagnosed with cancer.
in slightly more advanced stages than before.

Skin Cancer Prevention and Detection Week will be online

The Skin Cancer Prevention and Screening Week, which usually involves a dermatologist offering free screenings, for example for a suspicious mole, had to be canceled in 2020 due to the health crisis. This year, the operation will be completely online, with the creation of a website (https://www.sauver-sa-peau.fr/) and dedicated accounts on the social network. They will provide awareness videos and the possibility to ask dermatologists”
All questions about skin cancer screening, self-exam and prevention ».

The operation, supported by several cosmetic brands, will also be based on tutorials and discussions”
influential people » Expert in skin consultation.

SNDV specifically wants to encourage the French to regularly practice self-examination: “
Look carefully at her bare skin from head to toe, back and forth “, if necessary using a mirror or a loved one,”
Without forgetting the inconspicuous areas: ears, nails, soles of feet, space between fingers, genitals… »

What should the alert be?
rapid change in mole or wound Dr Sulimovic explains. In case of doubt, a dermatologist may be consulted in-office or tele-specialist at the request of a trained general practitioner, a practice experienced in three areas including “
has increased rapidly since the Covid-19 pandemic ».