ARE YOU AT RISK?

What puts me at risk of skin cancer?

Everyone, regardless of skin colour, is potentially at risk for skin cancer. Anyone who spends time outdoors is at risk — not just those who sunbathe. But some people are at a higher risk for skin cancer than others, either because of their skin typeor their behaviour in the sun.

A number of things can put you at risk of developing skin cancer. But there’s good news. You can always do something to reduce your risk.

The risk factors are:

your skin type   •   ultraviolet radiation   •   ozone depletion   •   tanning   •   sunburn

Does my skin put me at greater risk?

Human skin varies greatly in response to UV exposure. In general, there is a more damaging response in people who have very fair skin, who cannot or have difficulty tanning after sun exposure (see table below) In general, people with skin types I & II are most vulnerable to the effects of UVR, both short-term effects such as sun burning and long-term effects such as skin cancer and ageing.

Two thirds of Irish people have types I or II skin so take extra care if you have:

• pale or freckled skin that burns easily or doesn’t tan;
• naturally red or fair hair;
• blue, green or grey eyes;
• 50 or more moles;

You should also take extra care (even if you are not skin type I or II) if you:

• have a history of sunburn;
• have a personal or family history of skin cancer; or
• spend a lot of time working or playing outdoors.