FCN / Macmillan Programme Officer (Scotland) David Jamieson wrote this blog as part of the Rural Communities Cancer Project – a UK-wide partnership between FCN and Macmillan Cancer Support working to raise awareness of cancer in farming and rural communities and improve support available.
Why Farmers Need to Watch Their Skin
When you’re out in the fields all day, the sun is just part of the job. You’ve got crops to tend, livestock to check, and equipment to fix. Who’s got time to worry about sunscreen?
You’ve got a farm to run, and worrying about skin cancer feels like one more thing on an already endless to-do list. But here’s the reality: every time you’re outdoors without protection, you’re adding to the damage and increasing your risk.
Farming unions and health organisations are suggesting that sunscreen should be treated as essential safety equipment; like wearing your seatbelt or using proper protective gear. It’s not optional anymore.
Farmers have greater exposure to harmful UV radiation. Over three quarters of UK farmers get sunburned every single year.
Why You’re More at Risk Than You Think
While you’re outdoors, those UV rays are quietly damaging your skin. And it’s not just about getting burned occasionally. Research shows that having five or more sunburns doubles your risk of getting melanoma; the deadliest type of skin cancer.
Skin cancer has a long silent period. The damage you’re getting today might not show up for years. That sunburn you got last week could be causing problems down the road that you won’t even know about until it’s too late.
What to Look Out For
When it comes to your skin, you need to pay attention. It’s the largest organ in your body and is the barrier between all the internal, sensitive, life-maintaining organs, and the outside world.
You need to quickly see your doctor if you have any unusual lumps or bumps on your skin.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (Most Common)
- A smooth, firm lump that looks pearly or pinkish
- Can feel like a bump that won’t go away
- Usually shows up on your face, head, or neck
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- A new growth that looks like a mole, bump, or scab
- Rough, scaly patches on your skin
- Can grow pretty fast over a few weeks or months
- Might turn into open sores that just won’t heal
Melanoma
- Any changes to existing moles or freckles
- New spots or lumps that pop up
- Sores that stick around for more than four weeks
- Anything that just looks “off” on your skin
You Can Actually Do Something About This
Most skin cancers are treatable if you catch them early. But you’ve got to be paying attention.
Simple Stuff You Can Do:
- Wear sunscreen (SPF50): it can be annoying but make it part of your routine.
- Cover up: long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, proper clothing (dark loose fitting adds more protection)
- Seek shade: when you can, especially between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun is at its strongest
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Check your skin regularly: once a month, give yourself a good look-over. If you see something different or unusual for you, get it checked out
All skin tones are at risk. However, some people are more susceptible: fair or freckled skin that doesn’t tan, or goes red or burns before it tans; red or fair hair people; those with a large number of moles.
You work hard to keep your farm running. Don’t let the sun sideline you. Take a few minutes to protect yourself, check your skin, and if something doesn’t look right, get it checked. Your farm needs you healthy.
The sun’s going to keep rising every day; make sure you’re around to see it.
For more information visit the Macmillan Cancer Support page on Skin Cancer