Now an annual campaign, run by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), in collaboration with Healthy Ireland, "SunSmart" supports people to reduce their risk of skin cancer by protecting their skin from the sun.

Did you know?

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland with almost 13,000 cases diagnosed annually.
• The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland is rising rapidly; yet skin cancer is largely preventable by protecting skin from UV rays.
• Protecting your skin from the sun whether at home or abroad can reduce your risk of skin cancer.
• Be prepared; Follow the Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S’s: Slip on clothing, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a wide-brimmed hat, Seek shade, Slide on sunglasses.
• Make sun protection part of your daily routine, especially from April to September, even when it is cloudy.
• No sunscreen can provide 100% protection, it should be used alongside other protective measures such as clothing and shade.

How to be SunSmart:

Follow the Healthy Ireland SunSmart 5 S’s to protect your skin:

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin such as long sleeves, collared t-shirts;
• Slop on broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen on exposed skin, using factor 30+ for adults and 50+ for children. Reapply regularly;
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat;
• Seek shade - especially if outdoors between 11am and 3pm - and always use a sunshade on a child’s buggy;
• Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes.

As well as the 5 S’s it is important to remember

• Do not deliberately try to get a suntan.
• Avoid getting a sunburn.
• Never use a sunbed.

For more information on the SunSmart campaign, check out Skin Cancer Prevention: SunSmart - HSE.ie