GAA Partners with HSE to Keep Young Players Safe Under Summer Sun

The HSE National Cancer Control Programme has joined forces with the GAA and Kellogg's GAA Cúl Camps to promote crucial sun safety measures as summer sporting activities ramp up across Cork and Ireland.

The partnership comes as concerning statistics reveal that over 1,200 new cases of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, are diagnosed annually in Ireland. For children who suffer severe sunburn more than three times before age 20, the risk of developing melanoma as an adult more than doubles.

With GAA Cúl Camps drawing thousands of young players to pitches across Munster this summer, the timing of the SunSmart campaign couldn't be more critical. The initiative promotes outdoor activity whilst emphasising the importance of proper sun protection from April through September.

Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health Medicine at the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme, explains the urgency:

"Children's skin is very sensitive to UV from the sun. Sunburn during childhood increases the risk of getting skin cancer as an adult. Children copy those around them and learn by imitation. Establishing good sun protection habits early on is important, as behaviours learned at a young age are more likely to be adopted for life."

The campaign centres on the SunSmart 5 S's: Slip on clothing with long sleeves and collars, Slop on broad spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+ for children, SPF 30+ for adults), Slap on a wide-brimmed hat, Seek shade especially between 11am and 3pm, and Slide on sunglasses.

Colin Regan, GAA Community & Health Manager, emphasises the importance for the GAA community:

"I think it's incredibly important for GAA players, support staff, coaches, volunteers and family members to be aware of the SunSmart 5 S's. We can all enjoy being outdoors while also thinking about how to protect our skin when outdoors."

Cúl Camp coordinators have received specialised training in sun safety measures, which they'll pass on to coaches across their local areas. This grassroots approach ensures the message reaches children at the heart of their summer sporting activities.

Seán Gannon, National Cúl Camp Coordinator, confirms the commitment:

"Throughout our summer camps we will be promoting the SunSmart message. We are supporting our coaches to teach children about the importance of how to protect their skin from the sun. We encourage everyone to enjoy a healthy outdoor lifestyle, while also protecting yourself and children as part your daily routine from April to September."

The campaign particularly emphasises that UV protection remains essential even on cloudy days, as harmful rays can penetrate cloud cover. With skin cancer being the most common form of cancer in Ireland, affecting over 11,000 people annually, prevention through education becomes increasingly vital.

Between 2020 and 2045, melanoma cases are predicted to increase by 67%, whilst non-melanoma skin cancer cases could rise by 110%. These stark projections underscore the importance of establishing protective habits early.

For comprehensive sun safety information and resources, families can visit the SunSmart hub.