Date Published: 10 May 2010

The battle against melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer is far from won - 92% increase in numbers of cases over last 10 years especially in the older age groups

Irish Cancer Society says getting sunburnt, especially in adolescent years, is highly dangerous and a major risk factor for developing skin cancer

The Irish Cancer Society is announcing the launch of its annual SunSmart campaign today by revealing that the incidence of melanoma skin cancer in both males and females across all age groups has increased by 92% from 1998 – 2008 (the latest data available from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland - NCRI). There were 393 new cases of melanoma in 1998 and by 2008, 756 new cases had been recorded. The biggest increase has been in people in their 60’s and 70’s. Melanoma skin cancer, otherwise known as malignant melanoma, is the most dangerous and difficult to treat form of skin cancer. It develops in cells in the outer layers of the skin and can grow from a mole, freckle or a normal part of the skin. Early detection of melanoma is vital for a good outcome and long term survival.

Of the 756 new cases of melanoma skin cancer that were diagnosed in 2008, 139 cases were in the 60 – 69 year old age group and 274 cases were in the 70+ age group, which means that overall 55% of cases of skin cancer were in the over 60 year old age group. In addition, the NCRI data shows that over the ten year period (1998 – 2008) the percentage increase in melanoma in women over 60 years of age was 82% and in men the increase was a startling 152%. Furthermore, CSO data shows that there were 195 deaths from melanoma in 2008 across all age groups.

Speaking in advance of the launch of the 2010 SunSmart campaign Norma Cronin, Health Promotion Manager, Irish Cancer Society said

“ There has been a stark rise in the incidence of melanoma across all age groups but especially in older people. The Irish Cancer Society believes that the soaring increase in this generation shows the impact that tanning behaviour had on a whole generation of men and women who would have been in their adolescent years and in their early 20’s when the explosion in the package holiday industry was starting, when sunburn before suntan became a common ritual both at home and abroad and when sunbeds arrived in Ireland.”

“ The sun produces two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays, which reach the earth’s surface. UVB rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer and UVA rays can cause premature ageing of the skin and skin cancer. 80-90% of all cases of skin cancer are caused by the UV rays of the sun. You may be outdoors watching sport, doing the gardening or just sitting in the park. Don’t let UV rays catch you out. It is also important that you check your own skin regularly and look out for any changes that occur in the skin. If you notice a moles change in shape, colour or size, get it checked by your GP without delay. Early detection of melanoma is vital and can save your life” continued Norma Cronin.

The Irish Cancer Society recommends people follow the SunSmart Code to stay safe in the sun and reduce their risk of developing skin cancer:

• Seek shade from the sun when UVA rays are at their strongest – between 11am and 3pm
• Wear T-shirts (with sleeves and high collars) and long shorts made from closely woven fabric
• Wear a wide brimmed hat to protect your ears, nose and back of the neck
• Apply a high protection sunscreen (SPF of 15 or higher and UVA protection), 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every 2 hours – more often if swimming or perspiring
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes making sure they provide 100% UVA protection
• Keep babies under six months out of the sun.

The Irish Cancer Society’s 2010 SunSmart campaign will comprise a national radio advertising and public relations campaign. The key objective of the week will be to raise awareness about the increasing numbers of skin cancer cases in Ireland, how common this cancer is and the importance of prevention and early detection.

For further information on skin cancer prevention, early detection and the dangers of sunbeds call the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800 200 700 which is staffed by specialist nurses on Monday-Thursday from 9am to 7pm and Fridays from 9am -5pm. (IvyRose Note: Telephone numbers are for callers from within the Republic of Ireland.)

News is included on the IvyRose website to inform visitors about current health issues, but not to endorse any particular view or activity. Any views expressed iin the article above are not necessarily those of IvyRose Ltd.. Material in this news item was released by the Irish source listed below on 10 May 2010 and may have been edited (e.g. in style, length, and/or for ease of understanding by our international readers) for inclusion here. For further information, please visit their website.