Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. Its prevalence is rising each year.

The common and relevant skin cancers in the Caucasian population are:

1. BCC (Basal Cell Carcinoma)
2. SCC (Squamous Cell Carcinoma)
3. Melanoma (Aggressive and different from the above two skin cancers)

Unfortunately, not all skin cancers can be diagnosed clinically as some of the skin cancers can appear normal-looking with no specific signs.

Similarly, some benign-looking lesions could be a skin cancer or in the phase of developing into a cancerous lesion (in-situ lesion). As such, patients are strongly encouraged to perform regular self-examination of skin lesion or moles. If in doubt, a visit to the GP is strongly encouraged as the first access to the cancer treatment pathways.

Early skin cancer detection can dramatically improve patient outcome and reduce the risk of permanent disfigurement and potential requirement for complex reconstructive surgery. As such, a close working relationship with General Practitioners (GPs) with a special interest in early skin cancer detection is vital for early detection and treatment. In my practice I work closely with Dr Steve Karagiannis, a very skilled GP with a special interest in early skin cancer detection, diagnosis and treatments. He runs various Skin Check Clinics in Dublin. Further information can be found at www.skincheck.ie.

A well-informed patient is important for the successful management of skin cancer

The following links are a good introduction to Skin Cancer in Ireland and UK

http://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information/skin-cancer

http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/type/melanoma/