Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland
Skin cancer rates are improving in Ireland, according to a new report from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland.
The hopeful report also discovered that 100% of patients survived at least five years after they were diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer.
For melanoma patients, the survival rate has improved significantly to 92%.
The NCRI confirmed that skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland.
It is believed that around 11,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland every year.
Around 9 out of 10 cases are non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC); other types include melanoma.
About 270 people die from skin cancer each year in Ireland.
It may be the most common type of cancer in Ireland, but skin cancer is often caught early.
The NCRI explained that skin cancer, both melanoma and non-melanoma, are caught in the early stages (stage I or II.)
This means it is easier to treat the cancer successfully.
Commenting on the report, Prof. Deirdre Murray, Director of the National Cancer Registry, said: “Understanding the trends in skin cancer is vital for public health awareness and prevention strategies.
“Many of these cancers could be prevented with wider adoption of safe sun practices in our population and avoidance of sun beds.”
The public has been encouraged to protect their skin by wearing SPF every day, avoiding sunbeds, and practicing sun safety.
Read our Her Health skin cancer guide here.
