Irish Cancer Society says ‘Stay SunSmart’ as temperatures set to soar this weekend

News Article | 05 Jul 2013

“You don’t have to get sunburned to get skin cancer, but it helps”

As people across Ireland flock to back gardens, beaches and parks to enjoy the good weather and high temperatures which are forecast for this weekend and beyond, the Irish Cancer Society is reminding everyone the importance of being SunSmart and to protect their skin from the risk of skin cancer.

The SunSmart Code is easy to follow:

  • 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: make sure they give UV protection.
  • SLOP ON SUNSCREEN: Use 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. If the UV Index is three or greater it is important to protect your skin when outdoors by following the SunSmart code.  

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 many people believe UV damage from the Irish sun is not harmful and as a result do not take care of their skin when outdoors.  This is not the case.  All UV exposure increases your risk of skin cancer – whether you are in Ireland or abroad.  Our message is to get out and enjoy the sun but, from April to September, whether you are on the beach, playing sports, gardening or working outdoors be SunSmart and never let your skin redden or burn.”  

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.