THE HSE have shared the signs and symptoms for Irish people to watch out for after tanning.
See how to prevent serious sun damage this summer and when to visit your GP with irregular moles.
The HSE have warned sunseekers of the dangers of sun exposure[/caption]
There are two main types of skin cancer[/caption]
In a post to X, the health experts have shared the symptoms and signs to watch out for after the week of sun.
HSE bosses said: “Check your skin regularly for early signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer can be treated successfully if it’s found early.”
The health chiefs are encouraging sunseekers to keep a close eye on their skin for disease that kills 159 Irish people every year.
There are two main types of skin cancer – melanoma skin cancer and non-melanoma skin cancer.
While melanoma skin cancer is much less common than non-melanoma skin cancer is is still vital to know the signs.
As it has become more common in Ireland in recent years.
With 1,100 people diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer each year.
While everyone should stay safe in the sun this summer it is most common in people over 50, but you can get it at any age.
Melanoma skin cancer starts in cells in skin called melanocytes and can spread to other organs in the body.
But what are the signs you should look out for after the wave of sunshine that hit Ireland last week?
The most common sign of melanoma is a new mole or a change in an existing mole.
A mole may change shape, size or colour. It may stand out among other moles.
Check your skin every few months for new moles or changes in existing moles. Spot any changes using the ABCDE of moles.
How to check for changes in moles
With 159 Irish people dying from melanoma each year it is important for sun seekers to regularly check their moles.
The HSE have advised the public to do this by using the ABCDE method to make sure you catch any issues early on.
But what is the ABCDE method and how do you do it ?
- A =Asymmetrical : Melanomas are asymmetrical. They have 2 very different halves and are an irregular shape.
- B =Border: Melanomas have a notched or ragged border.
- C =Colours: Melanomas will be a mix of two or more colours.
- D =Diametre: Melanomas are larger than 6mm wide.
- E =Evolution: Normal moles do not change. Melanoma moles often change (evolve) over time. They can change size, shape and colour. They can become raised and crusty.
About seven in 10 melanomas are superficial spreading melanomas and tend to be more common in people with white skin and freckles.
Superficial spreading melanomas tend to grow along the surface of your skin rather than downwards.
But if they grow downwards into the deeper layers of skin, they can spread to other parts of your body.
Most melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or a sunbed.
Certain things can increase your chances of getting this form of skin cancer such as:
- lots of moles or freckles
- pale white skin that burns easily and never tans
- red or blonde hair
- a close family member who has had melanoma
How to prevent Melanoma
Melanoma is not always preventable, but you can reduce your chances of developing it by avoiding getting sunburnt.
You can help protect yourself from the sun by:
- covering up with a hat, clothing and sunglasses
- staying in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm
- putting sunscreen on any skin that is not covered
Do not use sunbeds, sunlamps or sunbathe.
The main treatment for melanoma is an operation (surgery). But your treatment will depend on things like the stage of the cancer and your general health.
If you notice an abnormality in one of your freckles or moles you should contact your GP.
