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UCF Encourage Outdoor Workers to - keep your shirt on!
By Derval Keenan, 9/8/2004 12:03:56 PM
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The Northern Ireland Care in the Sun Group (NIMSIG), which is co-ordinated by the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF), is urging all outdoor workers to cover up whilst working due to their increased risk of skin cancer.
The majority of skin cancers are caused by excessive exposure to UV radiation and outdoor workers, because they are exposed to the elements more regularly than indoor workers, are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
Sandra Gordon, Melanoma Strategy Co-ordinator, UCF; ?It?s such a temptation for male outdoor workers to strip off when the weather gets hot and the sun appears. During Men?s Health week (14th ? 20th) we are encouraging men in particular to be aware of the dangers of sun exposure. Pale skin is not designed for prolonged exposure to the sun and we urge people to keep their shirt on. Even those playing sports such as golf should ensure they use sunscreen and a hat. Over exposure causes sunburn, which is painful and unattractive. In severe cases it can cause blistering of the skin and may require time of work. All of which make work a lot less comfortable. Also in the long term - it accelerates skin ageing and can cause skin cancer.
According to recent statistics from the NI Cancer Registry, there are on average 2,379 people diagnosed with either malignant melanoma or non-melanoma cancer with around 43 deaths annually.
Sandra adds, ?Contact with some chemicals such as pitch, coal-tar, dyes and wood preservatives may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This also applies to certain plants and some medicines. If workers experiencing skin sensitivity they are advised to contact their GP or your work?s doctor for advice.?
The Ulster Cancer Foundation recommends taking the following precautions when working or playing sport outdoors:
· Find a hat that protects your head, ears and neck (wide brim).
· Wear loose ?T? shirts or long sleeve shirts. Possibly bring a spare for a change if it gets really hot and sticky.
· Protect your eyes with UVA and UVB sunglasses.
· Use a sunscreen ? minimum SPF 15 and broad-spectrum cover. Apply generously and reapply often. Always use it on ears, neck and face, even with a hat.
· If possible work in a shaded area and especially around lunchtime (strongest UV radiation) take your break in the shade. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can filter through. Many people call the skin burning they receive on cloudy days ?wind burn? ? not correct ?it is UV rays filtering through the cloud cover - causing sunburn.
· Take special care if you have: Fair and freckled skin that never tans or burns before tanning, A history of skin cancer or someone in the family has had skin cancer or a large number of moles (over 100 in younger people or over 50 in older people).
· If any freckles or moles change size, shape or colour or itch or bleed, see your GP. Most skin cancers including melanoma can be cured if treated early.
- ENDS -
For further information please contact Nicola Smyth, PR Manager, UCF on
Tel: 028 9066 3281 or 07703 321643.
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