Skin Cancer

Did You Know???

The skin is the largest organ of your body.

If you're worried about Skin Cancer, it's best to first understand the facts.

 

Skin Cancer – Facts

Skin Cancer can take 20 to 30 years to develop. Some people are more at risk than others.

Cancer is a disease of the cells within the human body. The cells do not behave normally.

They keep on growing to form a Primary Tumour.

If a cancer is malignant, the cells can break away from the body part where they form.

They can be carried by the bloodstream or lymph vessels elsewhere & may form a Secondary Tumour.

 

Treatments Available

The main treatments for Skin Cancer include the following;

• Surgery
• Laser Therapy
• Radiotherapy
• Chemo-therapy
• Biological Therapy
• Topical treatments &
• Photodynamic Therapy.

 

Main Causes

The main cause of Skin Cancer is Ultraviolet Light (UV) Radiation from sunlight. However, there are more cuses.

For example;

• If you have fair, light-coloured skin that freckles or burns easily
• Using tanning beds or sunbeds
• A history of moles on your skin
• History of Skin Cancer in your family
• Exposure to certain chemicals like coal tar, soot or petrol products
• A weakened immune system from taking certain medications that suppress your system

Prevention Measures

Most Skin Cancers can be prevented mostly by avoiding the sun. Some other prevention measures include;

• Paying attention to any early skin changes
• Examining your skin regularly - If you notice any changes, consult with your G.P.
• Avoiding the sun between 11am & 3pm, where possible - That is the time that the sun's rays are strongest
• Wear clothing that covers your arms & legs
• Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin
• Avoid using tanning beds or sunbeds
• Wear sun glasses

 

Cases of Skin Cancer in Ireland

Unfortunately, the annual rates of Skin Cancers are increasing steadily in Ireland.

In 2012, there were 860 people diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer, 470 women & 390 men.

About 140 people die from this cancer annually.

Non-melanoma Skin Cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland & is most common in people over the age of 60.

 

 

For more information on Skin Cancer, go to www.cancer.ie

If you are an Employer & want information for you or your Employees, www.hsa.ie