In a poignant demonstration, a charity has hung baby vests.

In a poignant demonstration, a charity has hung baby vests on a bridge in Salford to draw attention to the fact that there are inadequate services for people affected by foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). The national organisation for FASD argues that many health authorities in England and Wales have failed to implement effective services to address this serious condition caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

What is foetal alcohol spectrum disorder?

Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder is a range of conditions that can occur in individuals whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy. These conditions can lead to serious and lifelong problems, including problems with movement, vision, learning, emotional management and muscle and organ function. The disorder can be prevented, but once it occurs, it requires early intervention and ongoing support to manage.

The charity’s campaign
The national organisation for FASD has launched a high-profile campaign to promote better services and awareness. They placed baby vests on the side of a bridge at Media City in Salford as a clear visual reminder of the issue. The charity’s chief executive Sandra Butcher criticised NHS trusts for not following guidelines set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in 2022. These guidelines were created to improve the management and treatment of FASD.

Government and NHS responses
The UK and Welsh governments have publicly committed to addressing FASD through education and preventative measures. However, the charity’s report highlights a lack of action on the part of many health authorities. In particular, the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria and NHS Greater Manchester integrated care boards have not introduced specific services for FASD, according to the charity.

However, the Greater Manchester board was acknowledged for its efforts to implement the NICE guidelines. Despite this, the charity argues that more needs to be done.

Call to action
The charity has made a number of recommendations to improve the situation:

Clear guidance: They are urging NHS England and Wales to provide clear guidance on how to implement NICE guidelines relating to FASD.

Appointment of FASD lead: They want NHS boards and trusts to appoint a dedicated FASD lead to oversee the development and delivery of services.

Funding: The charity is calling on the UK government to allocate a small portion of alcohol duty revenue to create a new FASD prevention fund.

Sandra Butcher emphasised the urgency of these measures, saying many individuals suffering from FASD are currently undiagnosed and not receiving the support they need, which can lead to tragic consequences.

Government commitments
In response to the charity’s concerns, a spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Social Care said the government is dedicated to reducing the incidence of FASD. The NHS plans to prioritise preventive public health measures, including efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm. This includes promoting the “no alcohol, no risk” message during pregnancy to protect babies.

A Welsh Government spokesperson also confirmed their commitment to the cause, saying all health boards actively promote the message of abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy to ensure the safety of babies.

Challenges and future directions

Despite these commitments, challenges remain. The charity’s campaign highlights a systemic issue within the NHS in relation to the management of FASD. While some areas are making progress, inconsistency in service provision and a lack of dedicated resources remain major barriers.

The charity’s protest and recommendations aim to mobilise action and improve support for those affected by FASD. By drawing public and government attention to the issue, they hope to create a more consistent and effective approach to preventing and managing this disorder.

Conclusion
The issue of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder highlights a significant gap in health services which affects many families. The National Organisation for FASD’s protest is a powerful reminder of the need for continued and comprehensive support for those affected by this preventable condition. As the government and NHS work to address these concerns, ongoing advocacy and public awareness will be crucial in ensuring that all affected individuals receive the help they need.

Elle Macpherson Opens Up About Her Battle with Breast Cancer.

Elle Macpherson, renowned for her iconic supermodel status and affectionately known as “The Body”, has recently revealed a very personal chapter in her life. In an emotional revelation to the Australian Women’s Weekly, Macpherson revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago, a revelation that has shaped her journey and outlook on her health and treatment ever since. The revelation highlights not only her battle with the disease, but also her unconventional approach to treatment, which has sparked significant discussion.

A Shocking Diagnosis

In 2017, Macpherson discovered she had breast cancer after a routine lumpectomy to remove a growth. The diagnosis was both unexpected and overwhelming. As she explains in her new book, Elle: Life, Lessons and How to Trust Yourself, the news was a shock that left her struggling with confusion and fear. “It was a shock, it was unexpected, it was confusing, it was scary in so many ways,” Macpherson told Woman’s Weekly. The supermodel’s journey with cancer was not only a personal battle, but a public one as well, as she decided to share her experience in her book, titled “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” Her decision to speak out highlights her intention to give insight into her unique approach to dealing with the disease.

Choosing a different path
When faced with her diagnosis, Macpherson was presented with a range of traditional treatment options. Her doctor recommended a comprehensive plan that included a mastectomy, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and breast reconstruction. However, Macpherson chose a different path.

After extensive deliberation and consultation with 32 doctors and specialists — although the specifics of their qualifications have not been disclosed — she decided to forgo chemotherapy in favor of a “holistic approach.” This decision was not taken lightly. McPherson describes this process as a deep, introspective journey where she sought to align her treatments with her own intuitive and heart-driven sense of well-being.

In her book, she reflects on this choice: “I came to the conclusion that there was no sure thing and absolutely no guarantees. There was no ‘right’ way, just the right way for me.” This holistic approach was very personal, reflecting her belief in finding solutions that resonated with her inner sense of well-being.

Holistic approach

McPherson’s decision to embrace holistic treatments instead of conventional medical treatments is a choice that has garnered both support and controversy. She chose to explore alternative methods, including consultations with specialists such as naturopaths, holistic dentists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. However, details about the credentials and specific expertise of these practitioners are vague.

The holistic approach she took included significant lifestyle changes and alternative treatments, which she believed were more aligned with her personal beliefs and sense of well-being. Her decision to forgo chemotherapy, a common and scientifically validated treatment for breast cancer, has sparked considerable debate among the medical community and cancer patients.

Medical community response
The medical community generally supports the use of complementary therapies – which are used alongside conventional treatments – to help patients manage symptoms and improve quality of life. However, significant caution is expressed about alternative treatments being used in place of conventional medical treatments.

Cancer Research UK and other reputable organizations emphasize that there is no scientific evidence to support the efficacy of alternative treatments in treating or curing cancer. In fact, some alternative treatments may be harmful and cause adverse side effects. These treatments may also create a false sense of security, potentially leading patients to forgo proven treatments such as chemotherapy.

Jane Murphy, a clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, emphasises the importance of evidence-based treatment. “Each person’s breast cancer diagnosis is different, and as such, the treatment they are recommended will be tailored to their individual situation and agreed upon by them and a team of breast cancer specialists,” Murphy said. Specialists rely on strong clinical evidence to make informed treatment recommendations.

Personal reflection and impact

McPherson’s decision to share her journey is very personal and reflects her belief in the power of individual choice and holistic health. She spent eight months in Phoenix, Arizona, under the care of her healthcare team, during which she focused on her holistic treatment plan. This period of intense self-care and reflection played a key role in her recovery process.

Her family’s reaction to her decision was mixed. While one of her teenage sons supported her decision, her other son and former partner, Arkie Busson, was more traditional in his outlook, expressing concern about her decision.

“WHO Exceeds Polio Vaccination Target in Gaza Amid Conflict”

In a remarkable achievement for global health efforts, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that its recent polio vaccination campaign in Gaza has surpassed its initial targets. The campaign, launched with the aim of curbing the spread of polio after a recent outbreak, has managed to reach more children than anticipated in its first two days.

Successful start to the campaign

Dr. Rick Peeperkorn, WHO Representative in the Palestinian Territories, announced that 161,030 children under the age of 10 were vaccinated in the first two days of the campaign – exceeding the target of 156,500. This unexpected success is attributed to the underestimation of population density in the territory, which led to a higher number of vaccinations than initially estimated.

The vaccination campaign is part of an emergency response following the first confirmed case of polio in Gaza in 25 years. The case involved a 10-month-old child who was partially paralysed by the virus, necessitating urgent action to prevent further spread.

Challenges and local cooperation

The success of the campaign so far is partly due to agreements between Israel and Hamas that allow for local pauses in fighting. These ceasefires are designed to provide safe time for health workers to administer vaccines. The pauses are scheduled from 06:00 am to 15:00 pm local time and have been conducted in phases in different areas of Gaza.

The first phase, which began in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis provinces, is due to move to Rafah province on Thursday. The campaign will then move to northern Gaza and Gaza City. Dr Peeperkorn said these pauses were “going well” but acknowledged there were still logistical challenges to overcome.

Ongoing efforts and future plans

Despite the progress, the campaign is not over yet. At least ten more days of vaccination efforts remain for the first round, while a second round is scheduled to begin in four weeks to ensure widespread coverage. The goal is to vaccinate a total of 640,000 children, with the aim of achieving at least 90% coverage to effectively stop polio transmission within Gaza and prevent its spread to neighboring areas.

Dr. Peeperkorn said negotiations are ongoing to address the issue of children living outside the areas agreed for the pause. Ensuring that these children also receive vaccination is a critical component of the campaign.

The importance of vaccination

The polio virus is highly contagious and can spread through contaminated water and sewage. It mainly affects children under the age of five and can cause serious health problems such as paralysis and, in some cases, death. The re-emergence of polio in Gaza is attributed to disruptions in vaccination programmes and damage to water and sanitation infrastructure caused by the ongoing conflict.

Humanitarian groups have highlighted that the war has severely impacted the region’s ability to maintain routine vaccination programmes and ensure proper sanitation. This disruption has created a vulnerable population, increasing the risk of the disease spreading.

Personal stories and community impact

The impact of the polio outbreak has been profound on families living in Gaza. Niven, the mother of Abdulrahman Abu Judayan, a partially paralysed child, shared her heartbreaking experience. Her son was scheduled for a routine vaccination on October 7, the same day Hamas attacked Israel, followed by a military response.

Niven expressed her guilt and frustration, saying that circumstances prevented her from getting her son vaccinated on time. She hopes for the possibility of her son receiving treatment outside of Gaza, she wants him to live and walk like other children.

Looking Ahead

As the vaccination campaign continues, WHO and its partners are focused on achieving their goals and addressing the challenges that lie ahead. The situation in Gaza underlines the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to prevent the spread of diseases and protect vulnerable populations.

The success of the campaign so far is a testament to the resilience and dedication of health workers and organisations working under challenging conditions. With continued support and collaboration, there is hope that Gaza will be able to overcome this outbreak and ensure a healthy future for its children.

“UN Reports Strong Start for Gaza’s Polio Vaccine Campaign”

Amid continued conflict and adversity, a ray of hope has emerged for the children of Gaza. The United Nations has reported the successful start of a vital vaccination campaign aimed at vaccinating 640,000 young people against polio, a disease not seen in the territory for a quarter of a century. The initiative is a vital effort to safeguard the future of Gaza’s youngest residents during one of the most challenging times in the territory’s recent history.

Polio vaccination campaign kicks off
The vaccination drive is a huge task given the dire circumstances in Gaza. The campaign is being carried out through a series of carefully timed humanitarian breaks in the ongoing conflict between the Israeli army and Hamas fighters. These breaks, scheduled from 06:00 am to 15:00 pm local time over a period of three days, are crucial to ensure that healthcare workers can safely reach communities in need of these lifesaving vaccines.

On the first full day of the campaign, the response has been encouraging. According to UNICEF spokesperson Salim Owais, the early stages of the rollout have been promising. Nearly 2,000 children were vaccinated at just one clinic in Deir el-Balah, a testament to the eagerness of the community and the efficiency of the operation so far.

The importance of timely vaccination
The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized that to effectively stop the spread of polio, at least 90% of children under the age of 10 must be vaccinated within a short time frame. The campaign is a direct response to the first confirmed case of polio in Gaza in 25 years, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive vaccination effort.

Almost 1.3 million doses of polio vaccine have already been delivered to Gaza through the Kerem Shalom checkpoint, thanks to UNICEF’s efforts. These doses are being stored under austere conditions to maintain their efficacy. An additional 400,000 doses are expected to arrive soon, which will provide further support to the mass vaccination campaign.

Overcoming challenges in a conflict zone
Implementing a vaccination campaign in a conflict zone like Gaza presents unique and difficult challenges. Temporary ceasefires are necessary, but they are only one part of the equation. UNICEF’s Jonathan Croix underscores the importance of these pauses, saying that conducting a vaccination campaign in the midst of active warfare is impractical and dangerous. Both the safety of health workers and the safety of families bringing their children for vaccination are paramount.

Dr. Mohammed Salha, a physician involved in the campaign, highlights another critical challenge: fuel shortages. Fuel is needed not only to power hospitals but also to maintain the cold chain needed to properly store vaccines. Fuel shortages can disrupt both of these vital functions, increasing the complexity of the operation.

Additionally, there are concerns about the psychological impact of conflict on families. Many parents displaced by ongoing violence face significant barriers to accessing health services. The fear and uncertainty experienced by these families may further impede their participation in the vaccination campaign.

The personal stories behind the statistics
One of the many families affected by the conflict is that of Niveen Abu Judayan, a mother of nine whose younger son, Abdulrahman, was recently diagnosed with polio. The family’s horrific experience underscores the urgency of the vaccination campaign. Abdulrahman, once a healthy infant, has been left partially paralyzed by the disease. Niveen’s emotional struggle reflects the broader reality faced by many in Gaza, where routine vaccinations have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict.

The plight of the Abu Judayan family highlights the wider implications of the polio outbreak. Conditions in Gaza, including a lack of clean drinking water and inadequate sanitation, create fertile ground for the spread of infectious diseases. The recent detection of the poliovirus in wastewater samples further demonstrates the critical need for rapid and widespread vaccination efforts.

Broader implications and future outlook
The stakes are high not just for Gaza but also for the surrounding region. Dr. Hamid Jafari of WHO explains that the high transmission rate in Gaza puts the virus at risk of spreading to neighbouring territories, such as Israel and the West Bank. Therefore, the success of this vaccination campaign is not just a local concern but also has regional implications.

The effort to vaccinate Gaza’s children is a race against time. Each child must receive two doses of the oral polio vaccine, four weeks apart. This strategy is essential to prevent the virus from mutating and to stop its transmission. The polio variant responsible for the current outbreak is a mutated form of the virus used in the oral vaccine, underscoring the need for vigilance and prompt action.

“India’s Healthcare Crisis: Doctors Struggle with Overwork and Safety Threats 2024

In India’s busy hospitals, every day unfolds a harsh reality. For many doctors, the dream of saving lives often becomes an ordeal marked by long working hours, inadequate protection and a lack of basic necessities. The recent tragic death of a young doctor in Kolkata has shed a stark light on the systemic issues affecting India’s medical profession, highlighting a crisis that needs urgent attention. Imagine finishing a grueling 36-hour shift and finding yourself in a cramped on-call room with no lock on the door. Tired and undernourished, doctors in India often face scenarios that highlight

the severe lack of basic safety and comfort in their work environments. These are not isolated incidents but are symbolic of a wider crisis affecting healthcare professionals across the country. Dr Susmita Sengupta, who graduated from M.G.M. Medical College and Hospital in Jamshedpur, shares her experience of working in these harsh conditions. “Residency in India is incredibly challenging,” she says. “The working environment is often toxic, with little support or protection.” The recent death of a 31-year-old junior doctor in Kolkata, who was brutally murdered after a long shift, has only added to these concerns. The tragic incident has sparked protests across the country, with doctors, students and human rights activists uniting to demand justice and

better working conditions. Burdening the system India’s healthcare system is underfunded, with government hospitals serving as the primary source of medical care for the country’s low-income population. These institutions are vital, but often suffer from overcrowding, underfunding and inadequate infrastructure. For doctors working in such an environment, the burden can be overwhelming. Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bandyopadhyay, now a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, recalls his experiences in government hospitals in India. “We would see up to 400 patients a day in the outpatient department, which was impossible to handle,” he says. The sheer number of patients and the lack of resources put a lot of pressure on medical staff. In these high-stress environments, conflicts can escalate quickly. Dr Bandyopadhyay recalls an incident where they were

subjected to verbal abuse from a patient’s relatives after a failed resuscitation attempt. “There was no one to protect us,” he recalls. Such incidents are all too common and reflect a disturbing trend of hostility towards healthcare workers. he recent case in Kolkata has brought these issues to the fore. The murder of the junior doctor has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and systemic reforms in the healthcare sector. In response, the Supreme Court of India has set up a national task force to evaluate and recommend improvements in workplace safety for doctors. Dr Richa Sharma, an anaesthesiologist based in the United States, has been actively involved in advocating for change. She has united a group of U.S.-based alumni of Indian medical colleges to press for reforms and better working conditions. “We need systemic change,” Dr. Sharma stressed. “The current system is failing both doctors and patients.” Dr. Shoborose Tantray, associate professor at Ghaziabad’s Santosh Medical College, also emphasized the need for better safety measures. “Doctors often face abuse in government or private hospitals,” she says. “There is a great need for better protection and support for medical professionals.” The impact of overwork The relentless pace and demanding

nature of medical training in India contribute to high levels of stress and burnout among doctors. Long shifts, combined with inadequate rest and support, take a toll on their physical and mental health. Surgeon Dr. Aditya Yadav recounts a horrific experience where a patient threatened violence after being dissatisfied with treatment. “The stress and pressure we face can be overwhelming,” he says. The impact of overwork goes beyond individual doctors. This affects the quality of care provided to patients, as exhausted and stressed medical professionals are less able to provide the high standards of care they aspire to. “We often work in very unsanitary conditions,” says Dr. Sengupta. “This not only affects us, but patient care is also affected.” The tragic events of recent months have inspired a movement for change within the medical community and beyond. The cries for justice and better working conditions are calling for a fundamental shift in the way India’s healthcare system operates. Moving forward requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both immediate and long-term issues. This includes increasing safety measures, improving working conditions, and ensuring that doctors have the right to perform their duties.

Smoking Regulations Could Inspire the UK’s Outdoor Smoking Ban” 2024

Jack the barman takes a leisurely puff from his cigarette, the smoke wafting lazily in the Sydney winter sun. He’s sitting on the terrace of a historic pub, where the scent of beer and tobacco lingers in the cool air. Around him, pub-goers are enjoying their drinks and smoking in a designated outdoor smoking area, while those inside dine without any smoke. This scene is a snapshot of Australia’s approach to smoking regulation, a model that could provide insight as the UK considers tightening its own outdoor smoking rules.

A look at Australia’s smoking laws.

With smoking rates falling significantly over the past 25 years, Australia’s policies and their impact on public spaces and pubs offer valuable lessons. In Australia, smoking rules vary by state, but generally follow a clear pattern: smoking in public places is heavily regulated to protect non-smokers and reduce smoking rates. Pubs and other venues are no exception. Over the past two decades, smoking bans have become a part of Australian life, evolving from indoor to outdoor restrictions. Outdoor smoking regulations in Australia are extensive. In Sydney, for example, smoking and e-cigarettes are banned in many outdoor public areas, including within 10 metres of playgrounds, in outdoor dining areas and at public transport stops. This is part of a wider strategy to create a smoke-free environment and reduce

Challenges for pubs

exposure to secondhand smoke. The impact on pub culture When barmen reflect on how much things have changed since they started smoking, they found that smoking was allowed almost everywhere – on trains, in cinemas and of course in pubs. Now, while smoking is still permitted in designated areas, these are generally located away from the main dining and social spaces. For many, the smoking area in a pub is a mixed bag. James Beltrame, 28, appreciates the social aspect of the smoking section. “It’s like a different dynamic,” he says, relishing the chance to meet new people while sharing a cigarette. In contrast, Kenny James, 26, finds these areas less appealing, describing them as often gritty and separate from the main pub activities. Despite these different opinions, one thing they all agree on is the

benefit of not having to deal with secondhand smoke while eating or socialising. The move away from smoking in the main areas of pubs reflects a wider societal change, where a smoke-free environment is being valued more. The transition to a smoke-free environment has not been without challenges, particularly for pubs and bars. Rob, a security guard who smokes during his breaks, remembers a time when smoking was more integrated into social settings. He laments that the increasing restrictions seem to be a form of discrimination against smokers, who feel they are being unfairly targeted. Pubs initially experienced some resistance from smokers who missed the ability to smoke freely while enjoying alcohol. According to Craig Shannon, head of Clubs ACT, some venues reported a 10% to 15% drop in revenue when the smoking ban was implemented. However, this effect lessened over time as regulations were gradually implemented and the social dynamics of pub culture adapted. Mick Bain, a Sydney pub owner, also observed similar trends. “There was a slight decrease in revenue initially,” he said, adding that smokers tend to drink more alcohol, affecting the end result. Still, the effect balanced out as more families began visiting pubs for meals in a smoke-free environment. Bain believes that smoke-free policies ultimately helped attract a wider customer base. Long-term benefits and business adaptation

In the long term, evidence suggests that smoking bans can have a positive effect on businesses, contrary to initial fears. Public health experts, including Professor Becky Freeman from the University of Sydney, argue that there were concerns about revenue loss, but the overall benefits to public health and the appeal of smoke-free environments outweigh these concerns. Freeman highlights that Australia’s smoking bans have played a key role in reducing smoking rates, falling from 24% in 1991 to just 8.3% today. This success is attributed to a number of factors, including advertising bans, plain packaging, high taxes on tobacco products and the establishment of smoke-free environments.

Looking to the UK.

The World Health Organisation supports this view, suggesting that the economic loss often associated with smoking bans is a misconception. Evidence points to the idea that smoke-free policies can increase the appeal of venues to a wider audience, benefiting businesses in the long run. As the UK government considers tightening outdoor smoking regulations, Australia’s experience is a valuable example.

10-Year-Old’s Hospitalization Sparks Urgent Sunscreen Safety Warning”

A family’s dream holiday turned heartbreaking when a 10-year-old boy needed emergency hospital treatment after suffering a severe sunburn. Hector’s experience during a family holiday in Cape Verde has now become a cautionary tale for other travellers.This idyllic holiday was supposed to be a happy ending to the family’s trip, but it turned into a medical emergency after they had one last fun time in the hotel pool. Hector, who was having a great time in the sun, suffered from painful and debilitating sunburn that required immediate medical attention.A sunny

day gone wrong

Hector’s mother, Natalie, recalls the events leading up to the incident with a heavy heart. The family, eager to enjoy their final hours in the sun, had planned to have a last swim in the hotel pool before heading to the airport. However, a serious lapse spoiled their plans. They had run out of their supply of suncream, and had to buy a new bottle from the resort. Natalie purchased a high-factor sunscreen, assuming it would provide adequate protection. Unfortunately, shortly after applying it and letting Hector swim, his skin began to react dramatically. His back and shoulders turned a deep, painful red, and large blisters began to form. The sight of Hector’s burned skin immediately caused concern. Desperate to ease her son’s suffering, Natalie sought medical help. Hector was rushed to a nearby hospital, where the severity of his sunburn was assessed. Doctors determined that the blisters needed to be treated immediately. Hector underwent a procedure under general anesthesia to safely

A painful reality

rupture the blisters and clean his wounds. The goal was to prevent any potential infection and ensure the best possible recovery. Hector is now recovering, although his back and shoulders are heavily bandaged. The family has been advised to be especially vigilant about his skin health over the next two years. The severity of the burns has left Natalie deeply concerned about the safety and reliability of sunscreen products bought from abroad.Natalie has bravely decided to share Hector’s story to warn other families about the risks of using unfamiliar sun protection products when travelling. She suspects the sunscreen they have bought may be out of date, mislabelled or even fake. Her advice to other holidaymakers is clear: use suncream you know and trust. I would advise anyone not to buy suncream you are not familiar with. Use something you know, use something you trust,” Natalie said.Dr Sunday Nwoze, plastic surgery registrar at Nottingham’s Children’s Hospital, echoes Natalie’s concerns. He highlights that the hospital usually only sees a few cases of such severe sunburn each year. Dr Nwauz emphasises the importance of using reputable sun protection products and minimising the time spent in the sun during peak hours.According to Dr Nwauz, “Holidaymakers should aim to use sun protection products they are familiar with while abroad. In addition, it is important to limit sun exposure, especially between 11:00 and 16:00, when the sun’s rays are strongest and most damaging.”

A cautionary tale

This incident underscores the need for travelers to exercise caution when purchasing sun protection products abroad. Sun intensity and sunscreen quality can vary widely, and unfamiliar products may not provide the expected protection. For families planning trips to sunny destinations, experts recommend the following precautions: Bring your own sunscreen: Whenever possible, bring an adequate supply of suitable sunscreen for your family. This ensures you are using a product you trust. Check expiration dates: Be aware of expiration dates on sunscreen products. Expired sunscreens may not provide adequate protection. Buy from reputable sources: If you must buy sunscreen abroad, choose a

reputable store or pharmacy. Avoid buying from street vendors or unknown sources. Apply liberally and frequently: Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Stay in the shade during peak hours: minimise sun exposure between 11:00 and 16:00, when UV radiation is at its highest. Natalie’s decision to share Hector’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential risks associated with inadequate sun protection. While Hector’s recovery continues, his family hopes their experience will help others avoid similar troubles. The family’s story emphasises the vital importance of taking preventative measures to avoid sunburn. As more families head out on summer holidays and sunny vacations, the level of awareness about sun safety is rising.