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Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Health
- Irish Independent
HSE issues warning over sunbed use as skin cancer diagnoses rise above 11,000
The HSE has said there are 'lessons to be learnt' from Australia, where a ban on commercial sunbeds has been in place since 2016. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with more than 11,000 cases diagnosed every year. An event is being held by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and the Institute of Public Health (IPH) to discuss sunbed use in Ireland and explore future options for reducing skin cancer in Ireland "Skin cancer is a significant public health problem in Ireland,' public health specialist for the NCCP Dr Breeda Neville said. "The majority of skin cancers are caused by UV exposure, which means that skin cancer is largely preventable by protecting your skin from the sun's UV rays and by not using sunbeds.' Skin cancer diagnoses include cases of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Selling or hiring a sunbed to anyone under 18 is already illegal in Ireland, while a mandate to 'explore ways to ban commercial sunbed use' is included in the Programme for Government. The HSE has said using a sunbed is 'never safe' and exposing the skin to UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds damages skin cells, accelerates visible signs of ageing and increases the risk of developing skin cancer. 'There is a precedent for the successful banning of sunbeds. Australia introduced an outright ban on commercial sunbeds in 2016,' Craig Sinclair of the World Health Organisation (WHO) said at the event. "The measure has enjoyed strong public support and has undoubtedly prevented thousands of skin cancers and delivered an estimated saving of over AU$64 million to the Australian Health system.' The use of UV-emitting devices like sunbeds is classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). An IARC study has found using a sunbed for the first time before the age of 35 can increase the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer by 75pc. 'We have recently undertaken a comprehensive assessment of sunbed use in Ireland,' Minister of State for Public Health Jennifer Murnane O'Connor said. "The findings will inform the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan and provide policy options to reduce skin cancer risk. The Institute of Public Health looks forward to publishing our report in the coming weeks.'
Irish Examiner
3 days ago
- Health
- Irish Examiner
HSE confirms €2.3m investment to improve cancer services in the south west
The HSE has confirmed a €2.3m investment to improve cancer services in the south west. HSE South West has announced the "major" investment by the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) to improve cancer care across the region over the next 18 months. The funding will support eight new projects and create 16.5 new healthcare jobs, including nurses, doctors and oncology support staff. The new posts include specialist nursing support for patients in the rapid access lung service, a new family breast cancer pathway, which will aid in early detection, and a new post for a regional team supporting adolescents and young adults with cancer. It will also include recruitment of a new patient support worker for breast cancer patients as well as recruitment of a senior occupational therapist and speech and language therapist to support an increased number of patients and families. HSE South West regional executive officer, Dr Andy Phillips, said the investment shows a deep commitment to improve cancer care for everyone in the region. He said: It's not just about funding - it's about compassion, care and trust. "We are building services that people can rely on during some of the most difficult times in their lives. With this support, we can offer faster diagnosis, better treatment, and more help for families and survivors. "Our teams are dedicated to delivering care with kindness and professionalism, and this funding will help us do even more for our communities," Dr Phillips said. The HSE said the investment "will bring tangible improvements to cancer services, with additional staff for early cancer diagnosis clinics and extra supports for families at risk of cancer". Additional new services will also be developed, such as the provision of special care for teenagers and young adults with cancer, and the development of personalised cancer treatment expertise. The new services will support people after their treatment ends and some of the funding will go toward the acute oncology service, helping cancer patients avoid the emergency departments. CUH clinical director of cancer services Dr Dearbhaile Collins said: 'These additional staff will support many essential services across the region. Importantly, they will provide specialised care to our adolescent and young adult patients with cancer, patients on oral anti-cancer treatments, and the ongoing care of our cancer survivors. "Furthermore, they will reinforce our family history clinics to improve early detection, rapid access clinics, bladder cancer surgical care and the crucial acute oncology services. "We are also proud to announce that one of these positions will enable the region to lead out on the national molecular tumour board programme.' Most of these new staff will be based at Cork University Hospital, with some roles located at Mercy University Hospital and University Hospital Kerry. Recruitment for the new oncology staff members is progressing.
Agriland
19-06-2025
- Health
- Agriland
Farmers need to be ‘sun smart' to reduce skin cancer risk
With the sunny weather forecast in the coming days, the Health Service Executive (HSE) National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland are reminding people that sun safety is not just for trips abroad. The sun can be strong enough to cause sun damage from the start of April to the end of September in Ireland, according to the HSE. Whether you're out in the fields, heading to the beach, grabbing a coffee or relaxing in the garden, it is important to use sun protection each day between April to September, even on cloudy days. Minister of State for public health, wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O'Connor said: 'Being active outdoors is good for our health and wellbeing, but everyone needs to be aware that exposure to the sun can be very harmful if we're not appropriately protected. 'I am encouraging everyone to take action to enjoy the sun safely and reduce their risk of skin cancer. It's very simple, just follow the five Healthy Ireland SunSmart steps whether you're at home or abroad. Your skin will thank you for it.' Skin cancer risk To reduce skin cancer risk, it is important to protect your skin when outside, especially from April to September when UV rays from the sun are strongest. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, with over 11,000 cases annually. Yet in most cases, skin cancers could be prevented, according to the HSE. Data from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) show that over 1,200 cases of melanoma, which is the most serious form of skin cancer, are diagnosed in Ireland every year. This figure is projected to rise to over 3,000 cases per year by 2045. Specialist in public health medicine at the HSE's NCCP, Dr. Breeda Neville said: 'Melanoma skin cancer is strongly linked to intermittent, high-intensity UV radiation exposure which can occur during outdoor recreational activities like sunbathing or water sports, or if you use a sunbed. 'The more time you spend unprotected in the sun, the more UV damage your skin is exposed to which increases your risk of skin cancer, including the deadliest form – melanoma. Follow the SunSmart 5 S's whether at home or abroad this summer.' Almost nine in 10 cases of skin cancer could be prevented by following 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; on clothing that covers your skin such as, long sleeves, collared t-shirts; Slop on sunscreen – use sunscreen with SPF 30+ for adults and 50+ for children which provides high UVA protection and is water-resistant. Reapply regularly; on sunscreen – use sunscreen with SPF 30+ for adults and 50+ for children which provides high UVA protection and is water-resistant. Reapply regularly; Slap on a wide brimmed hat; on a wide brimmed hat; Seek shade – sit in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight; – sit in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunshade on your buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight; Slide on wraparound sunglasses. As well as the 5 S's the HSE has said that it is important to remember not to deliberately try to get a suntan. Avoid getting a sunburn and never use a sunbed. Patient advocate for the 2025 SunSmart campaign, Jacinta O'Brien is raising awareness of the importance of skin protection: 'I was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer when I was 38. I've had three surgeries, targeted treatment, immunotherapy and radiotherapy. 'While I feel that I was quite safe with the sun obviously being fair skinned, I do know that in my early 20s I was at many concerts and festivals and days out where I probably wasn't as good as I should be in applying sunscreen. 'When you're younger you think you're invincible and you don't think it's ever going to be you. You don't need to have prolonged exposure to the sun to get skin cancer. 'It's so important to sit in the shade where possible, cover up with clothing and apply sunscreen on exposed skin to protect yourself even when you do think it may be overcast.'
Hans India
01-06-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Tobacco use claims 1.35 million lives annually
Berhampur: There are more than 1.35 million deaths due to tobacco use in India and 8.7 million deaths in the world every year. This was stated by eminent chest physician Narayan Mishra during a rally organised for the youth at MKCG Medical College Play Ground here on Tuesday. 'Tobacco use can affect any organ of the body. Inhalation from tobacco affects mostly respiratory systems causing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), lung cancer, hypertension and coronary artery disease. Mouth cancer is linked to chewing tobacco. The addiction problem can be tackled with the help of specialised doctors and de-addiction centres', said Mishra. The rally was organised by Rotary District 3262 in association with IMA, NCCP, ICS and Physical Academy of Berhampur on the occasion of 'World No Tobacco Day'. The theme for the year 2025 is 'Bright Product. Dark intentions.' It highlights the hidden dangers of tobacco products that come in appealing flavours and packing. The rally was attended by more than 600 youngsters. Chief Guest Past District Governor of Rotary International Jayashree Mohanty inaugurated the programme and flagged off the rally.
Agriland
21-05-2025
- Health
- Agriland
HSA urges farmers and outdoor workers to prioritise sun safety
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has urged those working in agriculture and other outdoor professions to prioritise sun safety over the summer months. As the warmer months approach, the authority is reinforcing the importance of sun protection for outdoor workers. The HSA said that sun protection should be used even when skies are overcast. Under health and safety legislation, employers have a duty to manage the risks associated with sun exposure and implement measures to protect against this natural source of UV radiation. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland and the number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer is rising. The HSA is encouraging employers, the self-employed, and employees to take 'practical, preventative steps' to reduce the risks of sun exposure. Many jobs, including those in construction, agriculture, horticulture, couriers and postal workers, waste collection and fisheries, involve prolonged outdoor activity, increasing exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the associated risks of skin cancer, eye damage and heat-related illnesses. Helen Hourihane, senior inspector with the HSA, said: 'Even on overcast days, ultraviolet radiation can still be at levels that pose a real risk to anyone working outside for long periods. 'It's a common misconception that cloud cover offers full protection. This simply isn't the case. 'When the UV index is 3 or above above, protective measures are needed when working outdoors. In Ireland this is typically between 11:00a.m to 3:00p.m, April to September,' Hourihane explained. The HSA, in partnership with the Health Service Executive (HSE) National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), provide tools and resources for employers in how to ensure their employees are protected. The HSA recommends the following measures for employers: Evaluate UV exposure risks: Review outdoor work routines and environments to identify where workers are at risk; Plan the work: Where feasible, arrange outdoor duties to reduce the time and intensity of exposure to direct sunlight when the UV is strongest; Provide shade: Seek and provide shade where possible, and ensure break areas are provided in shaded or covered locations; Protect skin: Wear suitable clothing such as long-sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, neck-flaps and sunglasses; Supply sunscreen: Make SPF 30+, broad-spectrum sunscreen available and promote its regular use; Training and awareness: Give workers information on the dangers of UV exposure and how to protect themselves. Advise them to self-check skin for any changes and unusual moles or spots. Employees, meanwhile, should take the following protective steps: Dress for the sun: Wear clothing and accessories that shield the skin and eyes from harmful rays; Apply sunscreen regularly: Use SPF 30+ sunscreen at least 20 minutes before outdoor activity and reapply often, especially after sweating; Stay in the shade when possible: Use natural or provided shelter during rest periods; Drink plenty of water: Keep hydrated throughout the day to prevent heat stress. Maria McEnery, cancer prevention officer at the HSE NCCP, commented: 'Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland and is largely preventable by protecting skin with clothing, shade and sunscreen. 'We strongly encourage all outdoor workers to utilise the extensive guidance, tools and awareness materials to help protect themselves and safeguard their health,' McEnery added.
