‘Friuli-Venezia Giulia is often referred to as ‘the Australia of Italy’ due to the high rate of melanomas linked to environmental factors,’ began Professor Iris Zalaudek, a regular lecturer and director of the Dermatology Clinic at the University of Trieste, during the presentation of the ‘Watch out for the sun! Good practices for staying healthy while outdoors’.

The initiative, promoted by Fondosviluppo FVG and conducted in collaboration with the Immaginario Scientifico Science Musem, with the patronage of the University of Trieste and the University of Udine, is aimed at more than 10,000 students in the second year classes of secondary schools in the region, and aims to raise awareness among young people on the importance of preventing skin diseases.

Through a series of interactive workshops, the youngsters will learn how to protect themselves from UV radiation and gain awareness of the risks associated with sun exposure. Specifically, the educational approach is divided into four modules that, starting with cells, will allow students to explore the human body, with a special focus on the skin. Among the proposed activities, one of the practical experiments will offer a visual demonstration of the impact of UV rays, highlighting the importance of using sun cream for proper protection.

Unlike other preventive programmes, ‘Watch out for the sun!’ is not based on bans or strict rules, but aims to stimulate applied knowledge, promoting a conscious change in the daily habits of young people who will be able to adopt healthier and more responsible behaviour.

Thanks to this project, the University of Trieste renews its commitment to spreading a culture of prevention, educating the new generations to take care of their health from a young age.

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Subjects at risk: Melanoma in breve

The Sun's risks: AIRC - I rischi del sole