Attica Group implemented for a forth year and with ultimate success the “Sun Protection” program at the islands of Ios and Santorini.
Blue Star Ferries, a member of Attica Group, in collaboration with the Organization for the Prevention and Treatment of Melanoma “Melampous”, conducted during June 2012 free medical examinations for skin nevi (moles) as well as awareness speeches aiming at informing local communities about the prevention and also the risk from prolonged exposure to the sun.
The assistance of various local bodies (Municipalities, Healthcare Centers etc.), which embraced and supported this initiative, was vital for the implementation of the program. Surprisingly high attendance numbers also confirmed the existing need for medical examinations and information at the islands.
At the island of Ios a total number of 275 people were examined whereas in Santorini approximately 432 people received free medical tests and even more were informed about the appropriate sun-protection measures that lead to efficient exposure and eradicate the risk of health hazards.
In addition, Blue Star Ferries distributed to the local residents educational leaflets regarding sun protection and the advisable ways of skin nevi self-examination. The leaflets are also distributed by the central and port agencies of the Group as well as onboard domestic-route vessels of Attica Group throughout the year.
For the first time this year the information seminars regarding sun protection as well as the free medical examinations begun at sea. Throughout the journey to Santorini, the crew of Blue Star Delos had the opportunity of attending the speech conducted by the President of “Melampous”, received preventative examinations as well as learned how to provide first aid to passengers in case of sunstroke.
From 2008, the “Sun Protection” program has travelled to a total number of 12 islands of the Aegean including: Amorgos, Tilos, Nissyros, Astypalaia, Donoussa, Schinoussa, Koufonissi, Iraklia, Patmos, Leros, Ios and Santorini. It is worth mentioning that the particular initiative has been awarded with the “2010 ERMIS Silver Award” in the field of PR for the category “Society & Business”, which is organized every year by the Union of Corporate Advertisers of Greece (EDEE).
“Sun Protection” is a part of Attica Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility Program, entitled “With you as our destination” which is addressed to the islands served by the Group’s fleet through its ship owing companies Blue Star Ferries & Superfast Ferries.
Athens, 3 July 2012