The HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme is today reminding people to protect themselves from Skin Cancer, as new Covid health measures come into effect. The message from the HSE is for everyone to be “SunSmart” if they plan on enjoying the outdoors over the coming months.
Skin Cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with 13,000 cases each year. This figure is rising rapidly. Skin cancer is divided into two main groups: Melanoma – which is more aggressive, and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC). It is predicted that the number of cases of Melanoma will increase, in Ireland, by 67% in the next 45 years, and NMSC will increase by a massive 110%
The HSE advice to follow the SunSmart 5’s of:
Slip (on clothing and cover skin) / Slop (on a good sunscreen) / Slap (on a wide brimmed hat) / Seek (shade) / Slide (on sunglasses).
Never try to deliberately get a suntan, and never use a sunbed.
