More than 7,000 students across Friuli Venezia Giulia will enter the summer season better informed about sun protection, thanks to the “Occhio al Sole” project. The initiative, which ran throughout the 2024–2025 academic year, involved 138 first-grade secondary schools across the region.
Titled “Occhio al Sole! Buone pratiche per stare bene all’aria aperta” (Watch Out for the Sun! Good Practices for Outdoor Well-being), the project was organized by FondoSviluppo FVG — the mutual fund of Confcooperative FVG — and supported by the regional government. It was carried out with the backing of the Universities of Trieste and Udine, and with educational activities delivered in schools by the Immaginario Scientifico.
The project’s main goal was to teach young students how to protect their skin while enjoying outdoor activities. During two-hour interactive workshops, students learned about ultraviolet rays, how they affect the human body, and the dangers of excessive sun exposure without proper protection. Special focus was placed on the impact of climate change, which is increasing both the intensity and the risks associated with UV radiation.
Hands-on experiments and open discussions helped students understand the importance of skin care and the correct use of sunscreen. About 80% of first-grade secondary schools across Friuli Venezia Giulia — covering all four of its provinces — took part in the program. The strong participation confirmed the relevance of the topic and led to the announcement that the project will continue in the 2025–2026 school year.
Professor Iris Zalaudek, head of the Dermatology Clinic at the University of Trieste and the Giuliana Isontina University Health Authority, emphasized the project’s long-term importance.
“Educational campaigns like ‘Occhio al Sole’ are essential for building healthy habits early in life,” she said. “They help reduce long-term risks such as premature skin aging and skin cancer. Evidence from school-based programs shows they can greatly improve children’s use of sun protection and increase their tendency to stay in the shade.”
She pointed to Australia as an example, where melanoma has been one of the most common cancers among people aged 15 to 25. However, thanks to strong public education campaigns, the country has recently seen the first decline in melanoma cases in this age group.
With strong interest and proven results, the “Occhio al Sole” project is set to return for another year, continuing its mission to promote sun safety and skin health among young people in the region.
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