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21/06/2013
NI Skin Cancer Cases 'More Than Double'
The number of cases of skin cancer in Northern Ireland has more than doubled in the past 20 years.
Gerry McElwee, from the Cancer Focus charity, said complacency about the risks, the ever-increasing popularity of foreign holidays and the use of sunbeds are to blame for the surge in cases.
Around 3,300 people develop skin cancer each year, accounting for a quarter of all cancer cases.
Mr McElwee explained: "We have very light skin colours but people rate their skin much darker than it actually is, believing they never burn but tan.
"In actual fact those groups are very rare in our society, there is a perception that 'it is not a problem for me' for a lot of people and some people are not aware of the dangers and some may not be aware of the link between ultraviolet and sunburn and the potential for skin cancer."
He added there may be a time lag between people's exposure to rays in the 1960s, '70s and '80s creating cancers now.
Yesterday, Health Minister Edwin Poots addressed a Skin Cancer Conference at Malone House and said 'care in the sun' was paramount to tackling skin cancer.
Mr Poots added: "Substantial progress has been made in the area of skin cancer prevention. However, we will continue to see rising rates of skin cancer for some time, due to the amount of sun exposure people have already had.
"That is why I would encourage everyone to be aware of changes in their skin and to report any changes to their GP. Early detection can save lives."
(JP/MH)
Gerry McElwee, from the Cancer Focus charity, said complacency about the risks, the ever-increasing popularity of foreign holidays and the use of sunbeds are to blame for the surge in cases.
Around 3,300 people develop skin cancer each year, accounting for a quarter of all cancer cases.
Mr McElwee explained: "We have very light skin colours but people rate their skin much darker than it actually is, believing they never burn but tan.
"In actual fact those groups are very rare in our society, there is a perception that 'it is not a problem for me' for a lot of people and some people are not aware of the dangers and some may not be aware of the link between ultraviolet and sunburn and the potential for skin cancer."
He added there may be a time lag between people's exposure to rays in the 1960s, '70s and '80s creating cancers now.
Yesterday, Health Minister Edwin Poots addressed a Skin Cancer Conference at Malone House and said 'care in the sun' was paramount to tackling skin cancer.
Mr Poots added: "Substantial progress has been made in the area of skin cancer prevention. However, we will continue to see rising rates of skin cancer for some time, due to the amount of sun exposure people have already had.
"That is why I would encourage everyone to be aware of changes in their skin and to report any changes to their GP. Early detection can save lives."
(JP/MH)
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PHA And Cancer Focus Back 'UV Awareness' Campaign
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Marking Sun Awareness Week, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are encouraging everyone to be UV aware and to follow their top tips on getting the best from your sunscreen and reducing your risk of skin cancer.
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People Urged To Be More 'UV Aware' To Protect Their Skin
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20 May 2009
Skin Cancer Still Rising, Conference Told
The incidence of skin cancer is continuing to rise among both men and women and it is estimated that the likely cost to the NHS in the UK is around £100m per annum. That was the message that leading health experts heard as they gathered in Lisburn today for a conference on skin cancer.
Skin Cancer Still Rising, Conference Told
The incidence of skin cancer is continuing to rise among both men and women and it is estimated that the likely cost to the NHS in the UK is around £100m per annum. That was the message that leading health experts heard as they gathered in Lisburn today for a conference on skin cancer.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
