FOR many years, Ulster GAA have partnered with Cancer Focus NI to promote cancer awareness, and in particular, skin cancer awareness, through their Care in the Sun campaign.

This campaign aims to help us to better understand the importance of taking care in the sun – even here in Ireland.

Skin cancers are becoming increasingly common in this part of the world, but there are some things we can all do to minimise our risk.

Whether you are playing, coaching or spectating follow these simple tips to make sure you and your family stay safe in the sun:

– Seek shade between 11am and 3pm.

– Cover up with a hat, T-shirt and sunglasses.

– Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 and four-star or more UVA protection.

– Check moles for changes in size, colour and shape.

Skin cancer can grow from a freckle, mole or a normal area of skin.

Look out for new growths.

Although we are enjoying a lovely spell of sunny weather at the minute, it is important to realise that even on these cloudy days UV rays can cause skin damage.

And as we move into the summer months, while it is good to enjoy summer weather, it is important that we are always prepared, even on those cloudy colder days.

Oftentimes we mistakenly associate UV risk only with very warm days, but even when temperatures aren’t high, we should heed the above advice.

Pay attention to the UV reading and take necessary precautions for a reading of three or more.

You can also check the UV index for your area using any of your usual weather apps.

If you require any further information about keeping safe in the sun you can visit the website www.careinthesun.org.

If you are concerned about skin cancer, you can call the Cancer Focus free information and support helpline on 0800 783 3339 or email one of the charity’s nurses on helpline@cancerfocusni.org.