Following last year’s string of similar successful events, the Malta Medical Students’ Association (MMSA) in association with the Malta Tourism Authority is once again organising the ‘Reach on the Beach’ campaign aimed at dealing with the health-related issues that smoking and excessive sun exposure cause, these being two big issues on our island.

Not only does the event serve to deliver reliable information about smoking and melanoma, but it is also an opportunity to encourage people to reflect on their personal habits, as well as any associated health risks.

This outreach campaign will take place between 4 and 7pm tomorrow at Għadira, which has been awarded the blue flag. As they walk around the beach, MMSA students will invite the public to an interactive discussion about the health risks posed by smoking and skin exposure to the harsh UV rays, and they will also be giving pointers on how to recognise possible signs of melanoma.

Informative leaflets and bookmarks will be handed out, including a simple guide on how to quit if you are a smoker. An MMSA stand will also be set up on the second beach, which the public is encouraged to visit.

The ultimate goal of this campaign is raise greater awareness among the public − that personal health is determined by your personal choices, and disease can be prevented as a result of wise and informative decisions.

The MMSA thanks the Malta Tourism Authority, its main sponsors, Alfred Gera and Sons Limited, as well as the Mellieħa local council for their support for the campaign.