Farmers are being urged to treat sunscreen as essential safety gear, with a farming union highlighting the serious risk of skin cancer.
In Northern Ireland, over 4000 skin cancer cases are diagnosed each year, with outdoor workers, especially farmers, at high risk due to prolonged exposure to UV rays.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, and UV rays can cause damage even on cloudy days.
Farmers spend long hours outdoors, making them one of the most vulnerable groups to skin cancer.
In response, the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) will distribute free sunscreen bottles at this year's Balmoral Show, alongside leaflets on skin cancer signs.
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UFU deputy president John McLenaghan said: “Sunscreen should be part of every farmer’s daily toolkit, just like wellies and waterproofs.
"Sunburn might feel temporary, but it increases the long-term risk of developing skin cancer, which can progress quietly over time and can be fatal.”
Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal and squamous cell carcinomas, are most commonly diagnosed in Northern Ireland.
Health professionals stress the importance of early detection and prevention, especially as farmers often delay seeking medical advice due to busy schedules and limited GP access.
Iona McCormack, senior skin cancer nurse at Action Cancer, advised: “If you have a changing mole, increasing in size, changing shape or colour or itching, stinging or spontaneous bleeding, please seek advice and get it checked.
“If you have a non-healing skin lesion that ulcerates or bleeds, please also seek medical advice.
“Check your skin monthly and seek advice on anything changing, non-healing or if you develop a new mole – make sure to get it checked.”
The Agri Health Forum offers key advice to help farmers stay protected while working outdoors.
Farmers should regularly check their skin, use high-factor sunscreen (Factor 50), apply it 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours.
Sunscreen should be worn from March to October, even on cloudy days, and applied to all exposed areas, including the neck, ears, and scalp.
Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing should be worn, and farmers should seek shade during peak UV hours.
Those with fair skin, freckles, red or fair hair, and light-coloured eyes should be especially cautious, as they are more susceptible to skin damage.
