Skin Check Challenge

Raising awareness of melanoma and sun safety

We’ve launched a new campaign to help raise awareness of melanoma and the importance of both early detection and protecting your skin in the sun.

Our Skin Check Challenge, part of the GP Talks video series, features Dr Mountis, one of our GPs at Lakeside Healthcare at St Neots. In the video, he explains how to check your skin for signs of melanoma and what to do if you notice any changes.

You’ll see Dr Mountis filmed outdoors – but don’t worry, he’s fully protected with Factor 50 sunscreen and following expert sun safety advice. This campaign reminds us why it’s so important to check for changes to our skin and take simple steps to stay safe in the sun.

Watch the video on YouTube

“Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body,” said Dr Mountis.

“But if it’s found early, treatment is more effective, and outcomes are much better. We want everyone to take a few minutes to check their skin and share this message with friends and family. A small action could save a life.”

“We’re also reminding people how easy it is to protect their skin with a few simple habits when spending time outdoors.”

 

How to take part in the Skin Check Challenge

  • Watch our GP Talks: Skin Check Challenge video right here on our website, on Facebook, or on our YouTube channel.
  • Use the ABCDE checklist below to check your skin.
  • Share the video and help spread the word using #SkinCheckChallenge.
 

The ABCDE Checklist

A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole or mark doesn’t match the other.
B – Border: The edges are irregular, blurred, or not clearly defined.
C – Colour: Uneven colouring or multiple shades in one mole.
D – Diameter: Usually larger than 6mm, but melanomas can be smaller.
E – Evolution: Any change in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms such as itching or bleeding.

 

Sun safety checklist

  • Check the UV Index – use sun protection when the level is 3 or higher.
  • Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and 4 to 5 star UVA protection.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
  • Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, UV400-rated sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves.
  • Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
  • Remember UV rays can still damage your skin, even on cloudy days or in the shade. Using a mix of sunscreen, clothing, and shade gives you the best protection.

If you don’t have internet access, printed copies of the ABCDE checklist and sun safety advice are available at all our practices. Just speak to a member of the team if you’d like a copy.

 

Worried about a mole or skin change?

If you’ve noticed something unusual, it’s important to get it checked.
If you’re registered with us, you can:

Chaperones and translation services are available – just let us know when you get in touch.

The Skin Check Challenge is open to everyone. Watch the video, check your skin, and share the message – it could save a life.

 

Useful resources

Published: May 22, 2025