Farmers warned to take precautions to reduce risks of skin cancer

Farmers were urged yesterday to take steps over the coming months to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. It follows confirmation that cases in Ireland are on the increase.

The Irish Cancer Society and the Irish Farmers’ Association have published an information leaflet called ‘Be Smart — Protect Your Skin on the Farm’ which is available to the public free of charge on www.ifa.ie.

The society is encouraging farmers, farm families and outdoor workers to follow the four steps of the SunSmart Code for the best protection.

National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) data reveals that the number of diagnosed new cases of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer in this country reached over 10,000 for the first time in 2011, an 81% increase since records began in 1994.

The society said skin cancer can be prevented in nine out of ten cases by protecting the skin from harmful UV rays in Ireland from April to September, essentially from the silage season to harvest.

It is encouraging farmers, their families and workers to check the society’s UV Index daily to find out how high levels are in their area.

People can view the UV Index, which is supported by Leo Pharma, by visiting the Irish Cancer Society website www.cancer.ie/uvindex to check the UV level in any area in Ireland on any day.

If the UV Index is three or higher it is important to protect the skin when outdoors by following the SunSmart Code.

Rosemary Scott, Health Promotion Office, Irish Cancer Society said people can reduce their risk of skin cancer by planning their outdoor jobs outside the hours of 11am–3pm when UV rays are at their strongest or do jobs in the shade where possible.

“Some chemicals used on the farm, such as creosote, make the skin more sensitive to UV rays. If used incorrectly they can lead to sun burn which increases the risk of skin cancer so make sure your read safety instructions before using any chemicals on the farm,” she said

Maura Canning, chairperson, IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs Committee, said farmers and their families who spend most of their time working outdoors have an increased risk of skin cancer.

“While many people believe there is no need to protect their skin when out and about in Ireland, this is not the case.

“The reality is that up to 90% of UV rays can get through light cloud and it doesn’t have to be a warm and sunny day for dangerous rays to be present.”