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Skin cancer
Get to know what your skin is like and how to check it for changes.
Article by : SpunOut.ie
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Ireland with more than 5,500 new cases being diagnosed every year. Skin cancer starts in the top layer of skin and there are 2 main types: non-melanoma skin cancer and malignant melanoma skin cancer.
Non-Melanoma skin cancer is the more common type of skin cancer and usually effects older people.
Symptoms:
- Small lumps, sores or scar like changes on the skin, which don’t heal.
- Small, often painless sore with raised borders (an ulcer).
- A sore that won’t heal or develops into a tumour.
- A spot or sore that continues to itch, cause pain, scab, crust or bleed.
- A patch of scaly eczema.
- If you’re worried about ANY skin changes, make sure to see your doctor ASAP.
Malignant Melanoma skin cancer is not as ,but it is a more dangerous type of cancer.
Symptoms:
- A mole that starts to change colour, increase in size, seep, crust or bleed.
- A mole that is itchy, tender or with sores, inflammation or reddening on the surrounding skin.
- A new mole with uneven colours (it could be brown, black, blue or orange) or with ragged edges.
- Malignant Melanoma occurs most frequently on women’s legs and on men’s backs.
- If you’re worried about ANY skin changes, make sure to see your doctor ASAP.
Know your skin:
Early detection and early treatment of skin cancer give you a better chance of recovery so get to know what your skin is like, especially if you have moles.
- Stand in front of a large mirror and examine your body, both front and back.
- Raise your arms in the air and examine your sides. With your arms still in the air, bend your elbows and look at the inner skin of your arms.
- Look at the backs of your legs and the soles of your feet (including the gaps between your toes).
- Use a second mirror to check the back of your neck, your bum and back.
See the help section for supportive information and contacts details of support organisations.
