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Pharmacists Issue Safe Guide for Sun Holidays

Wednesday, 27 June 2012 10:18

  • Warning of risk of skin cancer from overexposure to the sun
  • 8,000 skin cancer cases diagnosed each year


As school summer holidays draw nearer, the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), which represents over 1,800 pharmacists, has warned holiday makers, especially those going on sun holidays, to protect themselves and especially children from overexposure to the sun. The IPU warned that one of the major concerns is skin cancer and have put together a Safe Guide for Sun Holidays. The Guide provides practical information as a reminder of what to do to ensure you have a happy, healthy holiday.


IPU President Rory O’Donnell highlighted the importance of using the correct protection from the sun.


“One of the major concerns of exposure to the sun is the risk of skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in Ireland with 8,000 cases diagnosed every year. People’s skin types vary so ask your pharmacist about the best sunscreen to use. If it is necessary to have children in the sun, they should wear a complete sun block.


“Some medications, especially some antibiotics, acne preparations, heart tablets and antidepressants, can make skin more sensitive to the sun, resulting in increased risk of sunburn, even on a cloudy day. Ask your pharmacist whether this applies to you and apply a total sunscreen block (SPF 60),” according to Mr O’ Donnell.


“Sunburn, particularly for children, can have a hugely disruptive impact on a family holiday. It is absolutely essential that all precautions are taken and that the skin is adequately protected from overexposure to the sun,” he continued.


The Guide also highlights the importance of bringing a sufficient supply of your prescription medicines to last the holiday, including inhalers for asthma, and advice on what to do in the case of sunburn and insect bites.


“Obviously these are just guidelines and we would recommend you ask your pharmacist first for advice before you travel,” concluded O’Donnell.


Click here to view the Guide.