Irish Cancer Society reminds everyone to be SunSmart this weekend

As thousands of people across the country flock to parks, beaches and their back gardens in the hope of good weather over the long weekend, the Irish Cancer Society is reminding everyone to reduce their risk of skin cancer when outdoors by protecting their skin in four ways, as outlined in the SunSmart Code.

The SunSmart Code tells us to:

• Cover up by wearing a shirt with a collar and long shorts.  Also wear a hat that gives shade to your face, neck and ears.
• Seek shade when UV rays are at their strongest – between 11am and 3pm.
• Wear wraparound sunglasses and make sure they give UV protection.
• Slop on sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and UVA protection 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every 2 hours – more often if swimming or perspiring.
• Keep babies under six months out of the sun.

The Society is also encouraging people to get into the habit of using the UV Index on www.cancer.ie/sunsmart  to check the UV level in their area for any particular day across Ireland.

Irish Cancer Society Health Promotion Officer Rosemary Scott says: "The main cause of skin cancer is UV rays from the sun. One of the difficulties is that you can’t see or feel the UV rays that are causing the damage. As a result many people believe there is no need to protect their skin when out and about in Ireland. The reality is that up to 90% of UV rays can get through light cloud so get into the habit of being SunSmart every day, when at home and abroad, whether you are on the beach, playing sports, gardening or working outdoors and never get sunburnt."

Ms Scott also wants to remind parents to act as good role models and follow the SunSmart Code with their children as worryingly most UV damage is caused during childhood and adolescence.  This damage which causes the skin to tan and burn builds up and can lead to skin cancer later in life.

It is also important to know your skin and what is normal for you and to look out for any changes. Early detection is the key to successful treatment. Many skin changes will be harmless but if you find anything unusual call the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700 or visit your doctor without delay.”

For more details visit our SunSmart pages, where you'll find lots more information including SunSmart Code, a SunSmart Survey, UV radiation and the live UV Index ratings from your part of Ireland.