The HSE is especially keen to highlight the dangers of skin cancer – the most common type of cancer in Ireland, with almost 13,000 cases diagnosed each year, a number that is rising “rapidly” according to a HSE spokesperson. However, it is one of the most preventable forms of cancer.
The HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has teamed up with Healthy Ireland to deliver the ‘five S’s’ in order to help people stay safe in the days ahead. That advice is as follows:
- Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as long sleeves, collared t-shirts.
- Slop on sunscreen on sun-exposed areas using SPF minimum 30+ for adults and 50+ for children which has high UVA protection and is water-resistant. Re-apply regularly. Sunscreen cannot provide 100% protection, it should be used alongside other protective measures such as clothing and shade.
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade such as sitting in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm. Use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight.
- Slide on sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes.
In addition, the HSE is urging people to not deliberately try and get a suntan, avoid getting sunburn and never use a sunbed during these strong conditions.
This article originally appeared on Joe.ie.
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