With the recent spell of good weather, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are reminding people who work outdoors to ensure that they protect themselves from skin damage that may result from sun exposure.
Sun protection was recently the focus of an event at Greenmount College led by PHA and Cancer Focus NI, with representatives from a diverse range of outdoor occupations.
Dr Miriam McCarthy, Consultant in Public Health Medicine with the PHA, said: “Everyone is at risk of sun damage, but certain groups such as people who spend a significant amount of time working outdoors are particularly at risk. We therefore are encouraged that many local employers and representatives are keen to work with us to promote sun safety in their organisations.”
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Stay safe in the sun this summer.[/caption]
Farmers, builders, grounds staff and postal workers are just some of the people at higher risk of sun damage due to the length of time they spend working outdoors. Fishermen at sea too are at an added risk due to the reflection of the sun off the water.
Event attendee Harry Wade, Health & Safety Representative at Royal Mail, was able to bring back key care in the sun messages to implement in his workplace and said: “The event improved my knowledge and awareness of sun safety issues considerably. Everyone who works outdoors needs to think about sun protection, even on cooler, breezy days.”
There are a number of steps that will protect against the sun’s harmful rays when working outdoors:
* Wear a long sleeved top, sunglasses and a hat with a brim or flap that protects the ears and neck. * On exposed skin use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15 for UVB protection, and 4 star for UVA protection. Extra care and a higher SPF factor may be needed if you have paler or freckled skin. Apply liberally 30 minutes before going out in the sun and re-apply at least every two hours. * Be sure to cover areas which are sometimes missed, such as the lips, ears, around the eyes, neck, scalp and backs of hands. * Where possible take your breaks in the shade especially when the sun is at its strongest – generally 11am to 3pm.
Marbeth Ferguson, Skin Cancer Prevention Co-ordinator with Cancer Focus NI, said: “The damage caused by the sun can accumulate over time and may lead to skin cancer. So it is important to check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or spots. If you notice any changes to a mole or patch of normal skin, tell your doctor who may refer you to a dermatologist.”
For further information on sun safety when working outdoors see:
If you are concerned about skin cancer you can also call the Cancer Focus NI free information and support helpline on 0800 783 3339 or email one of the charity’s nurses on helpline@cancerfocusni.org
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Northern Ireland and accounts for over 30% of all cancers diagnosed here – around 3,550 people develop it each year. While most skin cancers are not malignant the most severe form, malignant melanoma, can be a potentially life threatening condition, particularly if not diagnosed in the early stages.
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 treated early.
The Skin Cancer Strategy Implementation Group is a multi-agency group which includes representatives from the Public Health Agency, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Environmental Health, General Practice, Pharmacy, the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, the Northern Health & Social Care Trust, the South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust, the Southern Health & Social Care Trust, the Western Health & Social Care Trust, the Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry.
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