RUH Sun Awareness Day in association with Roscommon GAA

The Department of Plastic Surgery, Roscommon University Hospital held a Safe Sun and Awareness Health Promotion Event in association with Roscommon GAA in Dr. Hyde Park recently as part of an Open Day for Roscommon GAA Supporters. During the campaign, staff from the Department of Plastic Surgery provided high quality, evidence-based information on preventative measures, safe sun practices and timely recognition of skin cancers.

This event was part of a wider campaign by the Hospital to increase knowledge among patients, visitors and members of the public regarding the dangers of sun exposure, the benefits of sun protection and how to adopt safe sun practices prior to the holiday season. 

The Plastic Surgery Department at Roscommon University Hospital is led by Ms. Deirdre Jones, Consultant in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and has the first and only registered Advance Nurse Practitioner in Plastic Surgery in Ireland, Amanda O’Halloran. Working alongside them is Bernadette Finneran, candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner Plastic Surgery (Skin Cancer) and a team of skilled nurses and other support staff.

The health promotion event in Dr. Hyde Park was organised by Bernadette Finneran, candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner Plastic Surgery who said, ”We need to take a pro-active approach in relation to encouraging children to wear sun screen every day from an early age.  Skin cancer incidence and mortality rates are increased with age, however melanoma is disproportionately high in people under 35  and is the second most common cancer in ages 15-34. Intermittent strong sun exposure is more damaging than moderate long term exposure. In fact holiday sunburn once every two years can triple the risk of skin cancer.  Research has shown 6 out of 10 melanomas and 9 of out 10 Non Melanoma Skin Cancers are caused by the sun. 80% of cases could be prevented through adoption of safe sun behaviour from childhood to adulthood”.

Mary Garvey, General Manager, expressed her thanks to Roscommon GAA and in particular to Kevin McStay and to the management and members of the senior football team for facilitating and supporting the event.

Photo Caption
Pictured at the Safe Sun and Awareness Health Promotion Event were Bernie Finneran, Staff Nurse, Roscommon University Hospital; Kevin McStay, Manager, Roscommon Senior Football Team and Mary Garvey, General Manager, Roscommon University Hospital.