Protect yourself from the sun’s exposure
Olympian David Gillick and Consultant Dermatologist Dr Rebecca Hellen have launched Vhi’s Sun Safe parkrun campaign.
As presenting partner of parkrun, Vhi aims to raise awareness of the risks of sun exposure for parkrun participants and anyone who exercises outdoors. Over the summer, Vhi will provide parkrun locations across the country with sunscreen for parkrun participants, and run an educational campaign to help people be sun safe on Vhi and parkrun social channels.
A recent Vhi survey of Irish people found that, when exercising outdoors four in five people have been sunburned. Just four in 10 always take measures to protect their skin.
Some 83% of survey participants said their attitude towards sun protection would be different if they lived in a traditionally warmer, sunnier country, highlighting that the dangers of sun exposure in Ireland are vastly underestimated.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with over 13,000 new cases diagnosed every year. The National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) expects annual cases to double by 2040.
Dr Rebecca Hellen, Consultant Dermatologist at Vhi said: “As a dermatologist, I diagnose and treat skin cancers on a daily basis.
The results of the survey certainly reflect what I see and hear in clinic. Thankfully, there are some simple ways that we can reduce our skin cancer risk and still enjoy the benefits of outdoor activities, such as parkrun.
“The first step in sun protection is to avoid exposure if possible between 11am and 3pm when the levels of harmful ultraviolet light are highest. parkruns are earlier in the morning, which is ideal.
The next step is to cover up with light-weight clothing and finally the last line of defence is sunscreen, which should be applied to all areas of exposed skin.
“Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 50 that protects against UVA and UVB. Apply generously and re-apply every 2 hours or after sweating. Don’t forget to wear a hat and wear UV-protective sunglasses.”
Vhi ambassador David Gillick said “Although my World and European medals were won at indoor championships, I spent the majority of my running career outdoors and since retiring I’m a huge advocate of parkrun as the best way to start your weekend. I have to admit though that
“I’m as guilty as anyone else for neglecting sun protection, assuming that the sun isn’t as dangerous in Ireland.
“Vhi’s survey shows there’s a lot of education still needed on sun safety in Ireland.
“It has definitely made me change my attitude, and now sun protection is as much a part of my exercise routine as a good warm-up and drinking plenty of fluids. Hopefully Vhi’s campaign will encourage other people to do the same!”