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Launch of Sun Awareness Week
By Derval Keenan, 6/17/2005 12:22:59 PM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation marked the launch of Sun Awareness Week with help from members of the Ireland rugby touring squad to Japan.
Sun Awareness Week (23rd ?– 29th May 2005) highlights the risks of over exposure to the sun including skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland and rates are increasing by an average of 4 men and 9 women each year.
Sandra Gordon, Melanoma Strategy Co-ordinator, Ulster Cancer Foundation explained, ?“The majority of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR). UVR is most intense in Northern Ireland between May and the end of August from 11am - 3pm. People with Celtic skin types need protection in the sun to reduce their risk of skin cancer.?”
Sun Awareness Week 2005 targets outdoor sports and encourages participants and spectators to take care in the sun. This year the campaign is highlighting the need for eye protection.
Sandra continued, ?“Eyes, like skin, are very susceptible to damage from exposure to UVR - which cannot be seen or felt, but which can cause serious damage to both eyes and skin over time. We are urging those who are outdoors to wear close fitting, wrap around sunglasses, which helps to reduce UVR exposure to the eyes. Sunglasses and a broad brimmed hat can reduce UVR exposure to the face and eyes by up to 98%. Sunglasses reduce the risk of short-term damage and irritation to the eyes as well as long-term diseases such as cataracts.?”
Richard Sweeney from Richard Sweeney Opticians who has supplied Ulster members of the Irish Squad with sunglasses for their tour of Japan added, ?“Sunglasses are not just a fashion statement ?– they protect against the damaging effects of UVR. We advise people to look out for sunglasses displaying the British Standard mark as these offer the best protection.?”
To minimise risk and stay safe in the sun, UCF also advise the following:
?˜ Cover Up - Wear a hat, broad brims give the best protection, but you may prefer a baseball cap (if so use a sunscreen (SPF 15+) on your unprotected ears and neck). A ?‘legionnaire?’ flap on your baseball hat provides excellent protection. You may be inventive and attach you own - especially for kids. Wear loose fitting clothing to protect your shoulders, arms and legs when you are walking around in the sun.
?˜ Seek Shade ?– Especially during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm. Limit the time you are exposed to the sun.
?˜ Use Sunscreen?– In Northern Ireland a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is recommended. When you travel abroad to hotter countries a higher SPF should be used. Apply before going out in the sun and reapply every two hours and after swimming and perspiring.
It is important to check skin regularly for suspected skin cancers. Check the whole body as skin cancer can occur in places not normally exposed to the sun. Be aware of any new spots, or existing spots that have changed colour, size or shape. A skin cancer may be a spot that bleeds easily, never heals properly or is always itchy.
If an unusual spot is identified, show this to a doctor. Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if detected early.
-ENDS-
For further information please contact:
Pauline Wylie, Ulster Cancer Foundation
Tel. 028 9049 2007
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