Most of us in Bideford will know at least one person who has been diagnosed with some form of cancer. 

Living close to such wonderful beaches as we do in North Devon gets us outside more and is likely to be a contributory factor in the higher incidence of skin cancer here than in other parts of the UK. 

Skin cancers caused by exposure to sun are among the most easily avoided types and World Cancer Day, next Friday 4 February, focuses on teaching children and teenagers about the dangers of UV exposure by being 'sun smart'.

Councillor

Adam Symons, Lead Member for Health at Torridge District Council, says: “Although the cause of most cancers is not known, we do

know that some 'risk factors' increase our chances of developing cancer.

Avoiding excessive sun exposure is one way in which we can all reduce

the risks, especially when overseas! Stopping smoking and avoiding

exposure to passive smoke, limiting alcohol consumption, regular

physical activity, eating healthily and maintaining a healthy weight are

all other ways in which we can help ourselves. Many people, especially

men, put off seeing the doctor if they think they might have a problem,

but the quicker cancer is identified, the greater the chance of it being treated successfully.”