Roscommon University Hospital has donated sunscreen dispensers to Roscommon GAA and Roscommon Gaels to help raise awareness around skin cancer prevention.

The local hospital's donation coincides with Melanoma Awareness Month, which runs throughout May. The initiative aims to encourage regular sunscreen use among players. The dispensers have been installed in the dressing rooms at both Roscommon Gaels’ ground in Lisnamult and at King & Moffat Dr Hyde Park.

Bernie Finneran, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Skin Cancer at Roscommon University Hospital, highlighted the importance of sun protection: “Approximately 1,290 people are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer each year in Ireland. It is very important that everyone uses a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen-SPF 30+ for adults and SPF 50+ for children that has a high UVA protection and is water resistant.

“Each dispenser includes a UV index display to provide real-time information about UV radiation levels.

“In Ireland, the UV index is usually 3 or higher from April to September, even when it’s cloudy and therefore daily sun protection is essential, regardless of the weather,” she continued.

Roscommon GAA chairman Brian Carroll added: “We in Roscommon GAA are delighted to assist in raising awareness of skin cancer prevention to coincide with Melanoma Awareness Month. I would encourage all players in all our clubs to wear sunscreen at all times but especially during the summer months when UV is at its highest in our country.” 

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