Kilkenny GP issues advice ahead of Skin Cancer Awareness Month

As Skin Cancer Awareness Month approaches this May, SkinScan Ireland and Kilkenny GP Dr David Brennan are encouraging people across Ireland to take a more proactive approach to protecting their skin and recognising the early signs of skin cancer.

With incidence rates continuing to rise, early detection remains one of the most effective ways to ensure successful treatment outcomes.

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Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Ireland, yet it is also one of the most preventable. Despite this, many cases are still diagnosed later than they should be, often because early warning signs are missed or ignored. Dr Brennan is emphasising the importance of building simple, consistent habits around skin awareness and sun protection, noting that small changes in behaviour can have a significant long-term impact.

Regular self-examination plays a central role in early detection. Individuals are advised to become familiar with their own skin and to monitor for any new moles or lesions, as well as changes in existing ones. Subtle shifts in size, shape, colour, or texture can be early indicators of concern. Dr Brennan highlights that people should not wait for symptoms such as pain or discomfort before seeking advice, as skin cancers can often develop silently.

Awareness of ultraviolet exposure is also critical, even in Ireland’s temperate climate. Harmful UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover and contribute to cumulative skin damage throughout the year. Dr Brennan advises that people should pay attention to the daily UV index and adopt protective measures when levels are moderate or high. This includes the regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak daylight hours.

He also stresses that professional skin assessments are an important complement to self-checking. Advances in dermoscopy and digital mole mapping now allow for highly detailed examination of the skin, enabling clinicians to identify subtle changes that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Services such as those offered by SkinScan provide patients with reassurance as well as early intervention where necessary.

The key actions Dr Brennan is encouraging people to take are:

- Check your skin regularly and become familiar with what is normal for you

- Take note of any new or changing moles or lesions and do not ignore them.

- Wear sunscreen daily and protect your skin when UV levels are elevated.

- Reduce UV exposure by seeking shade and wearing protective clothing.

- Seek professional advice promptly if you notice anything unusual.

Dr Brennan said, “Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers we see in clinical practice, but there are some very straightforward habits that can help to reduce your risk. Early diagnosis is extremely important as it can facilitate timely treatment and improve outcomes. People often underestimate the significance of small changes in their skin or assume that Ireland’s climate reduces their risk, which is not the case. By checking your skin regularly, protecting yourself from UV exposure, and seeking professional advice when something changes, you are taking control of your long-term health. These are simple steps, but they can make a life-saving difference.”

With Skin Cancer Awareness Month serving as a national prompt to reflect on personal health habits, SkinScan Ireland is encouraging individuals of all ages to make skin checks part of their routine and to prioritise prevention as much as treatment. For more details, see skinscan.ie