Today, (Friday, March 25, 2022) the Health Service Executive (HSE) National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland are reminding farmers to be prepared and protect themselves from the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays by being 'sun smart' as temperatures look set to rise this weekend.

The HSE has said that if you are spending time outdoors this weekend working or for recreation, if your children are taking part in sport, or if you are going out for Mother’s Day, don’t forget to be prepared and be SunSmart.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with almost 13,000 cases annually, according to the NCCP.

The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland is rising rapidly.

It is generally classified into two groups: Melanoma, which is the more aggressive form, and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC).

Between 2020 and 2045, it is predicted that the number of cases of melanoma per year among males and females will increase by 67% and NMSC will increase by 110%.

UV radiation from the sun causes the DNA damage in our skin which can lead to skin cancer. UV is usually strongest between 11:00a.m and 3:00p.m from April to September in Ireland, even when it’s cloudy.

The HSE is urging people to follow the SunSmart 5S, i.e., slip, slop, slap, seek and slide, to make sure you are prepared and protected.

Health experts are advising people not to deliberately get a suntan, avoid getting a sunburn and never use a sunbed.

Dr. Katharine Harkin, specialist in public health medicine, HSE NCCP said: “With fine weather forecast for this weekend, people will have more opportunity to enjoy getting outside.

"We want to remind everyone to enjoy the sun safely by following the SunSmart 5S, to protect their skin and reduce their risk of skin cancer."