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. Exposure to UV radiation during childhood is particularly harmful so protecting skin during childhood is extremely important.
The SunSmart campaign is run by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), in collaboration with Healthy Ireland and cross-sectoral partners. We are working together to support people to reduce their risk of skin cancer by protecting their skin from the sun. This is the third year of the campaign and each year it continues to grow.
The aim of the campaign is to increase awareness of the steps you, your family, friends and colleagues can take to protect your skin from the sun.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland with 13,000 cases diagnosed annually. The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland is rising rapidly. Yet skin cancer is largely preventable by protecting skin from UV rays.
Protecting your skin from the sun whether at home or abroad can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Follow the Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S’s to protect your skin:
Sunscreen is an important sun protection measure, but should not be used as the first or only line of defence. It should be used in conjunction with other sun protection measures such as using shade, wearing protective clothing, hats and sunglasses and limiting time outdoors in the mid-day sun.
As well as the 5 S’s it is important to remember:
- In Ireland, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels from the sun are high 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 11:00am to 3:00pm
- Do not deliberately try to get a suntan
- Avoid getting a sunburn
- Never use a sunbed.
Downloadable information materials on the SunSmart campaign and fact sheets are available HERE or you can email [email protected] with your request.
