Stay Sun-Safe in Ireland

By BRENDON PURCHASE

With another summer upon us, and more and more of us choosing to spend time in our gardens, exercising outdoors, and other outdoor activities staying sun-safe is more important than ever.

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Ireland and the numbers are rising. With over 11,000 cases diagnosed each year it accounts for over one-third of all cancers diagnosed annually. However, most skin cancers can be prevented by following skin protection procedures.

Most people living in Ireland have fair skin, the type which burns easily and tans poorly, so are at high risk of UV damage and skin cancer.

It is important for physical and mental health to enjoy time outdoors but we should do so while also protecting skin from UV radiation to reduce the risk of our most common cancer.

Exposure to UV radiation during childhood is particularly harmful so protecting skin during childhood is extremely important.

Outdoor workers have been identified as a high-risk group for the development of skin cancer as they spend long periods outdoors. Here are some steps you and your family can take to protect your skin from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer in Ireland

Know the UV index:

When the UV index is 3 or above you need to protect your skin. In Ireland, the UV index is usually 3 or above from April to September, even when it is cloudy. Stay safe by limiting time in the sun when UV is strongest, typically between the hours of 11am to 3pm. Check the UV index on www.met.ie

Clothing:

Cover skin as much as possible, wear long sleeves, collared t-shirts, clothes made from closewoven material that does not allow sunlight through.

Broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB)sunscreen:

When the UV index is 3 or above you need to protect your skin. In Ireland, the UV index is usually 3 or above from April to September, even when it is cloudy. Stay safe by limiting time in the sun when UV is strongest, typically between the hours of 11am to 3pm. Check the UV index on www.met.ie

Wide-brimmed hat:

Protect your face, ears and neck.

Shade:

Sit in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight.

Sunglasses:

Guard your eyes against harm by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. Like your skin, eyes can be sunburned!

Tanning:

Do not deliberately try to get a suntan. Avoid getting a sunburn. Never use a sunbed.

For more on protecting your skin go to www.hse.ie/sunsmart

Skin cancer awareness is crucial because skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in many countries, including Ireland. It’s important to understand that 9 out of every 10 cases of skin cancer are caused by UV rays from the sun or sunbeds.

Types of Skin Cancer:

Non-melanoma Skin Cancers.

These are the most common types. They tend to grow in areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun and are more common in older people.

Melanoma Skin Cancer.

Melanoma is rarer but more serious as it can spread to other parts of the body and become fatal if not treated early.

Warning Signs to Look Out For:

• A new growth or sore that won’t heal.

• A new and changing mole, or the change in appearance of an existing mole

For more detailed information, visit www.cancer.ie or www.irishskin.ie Being vigilant about skin changes can make a significant difference in outcomes. Stay protected and inspect your skin regularly!

Be Sun Smart and protect your skin from the sun.