News

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Northern Ireland and accounts for over 31% of all cancers diagnosed. 4,095 people develop skin cancer each year and around 377 of these are malignant melanoma, the most serious form. Malignant melanoma rates have risen remarkably over the past 30 years, from an average of 103 cases per year in the mid-1980s, to 377 cases each year at present.

As spring and summer approach the Public Health Agency and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are promoting the Be UV Aware initiative to remind people to be ultraviolet (UV) radiation aware and take appropriate care in the sun according to the UV level. This is especially important for people working outdoors.

A range of information resources are available to help you promote the Be UV Aware messages at your workplace. The resources are free and can include:

• A Be UV Aware notice board which can be updated daily to provide information on local UV levels. The board is used in conjunction with either met office forecast data (available online) or a portable hand held UV index meter (a limited number of meters are available on loan on a first come first serve basis)  
• A pack of skin cancer prevention information posters and leaflets
• A workplace sun protection policy template – a template for employers of outdoor workers to use or adapt to suit their organisation

For more information please contact the regional skin cancer prevention co-ordinator at marbethferguson@cancerfocusni.org  or 028 90680784