Understanding Cancer in Ireland: Symptoms, Prevention, and Support
In Ireland, cancer diagnoses are becoming increasingly common, with one in two people expected to receive a diagnosis in their lifetime. Approximately 44,000 people in Ireland will be diagnosed with cancer this year, a statistic that, while concerning, similarly reflects improvements in early detection, screening, and treatment options.2 This article, informed by insights from Sonya Carr, a Cancer Awareness Nurse with the Irish Cancer Society, provides an overview of the most common cancers in Ireland, their symptoms, preventative measures, and available support resources.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Ireland, accounting for over 11,000 cases annually.2 It presents in two primary forms: melanoma and non-melanoma. Non-melanoma skin cancer, encompassing squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, is more prevalent, with over 10,000 cases each year. Melanoma, while less common (roughly 1,200 cases annually), can affect individuals of all skin tones.2
Key warning signs include changes in the shape, size, color, or thickness of existing moles, or the appearance of new moles or marks. Sonya Carr emphasizes the importance of regular self-examination: “It’s about knowing what’s normal for you. If you have any changes to your skin, to new or existing moles or new or existing marks, grab a photo of it. Then if it changes you can compare.” Any changes should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.2
Prostate Cancer
Around 4,000 cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed each year in Ireland, affecting one in six men.2 Symptoms to be aware of include increased urinary frequency (especially at night), difficulty urinating, a weaker urine stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and straining during urination.2
Less common symptoms include blood in urine or semen, back or bone pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Sonya Carr highlights the importance of regular checks, particularly for men with a family history of prostate cancer. “If there’s a family history of prostate cancer, men over 40 should chat to their GP about doing a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test. If there’s no family history, men from the age of 50 onwards should be chatting to their doctor about PSA. Your GP may also do a digital rectal examination.”2
Breast Cancer
Approximately 3,500 cases of breast cancer are detected annually in Ireland, meaning one in seven women will develop this cancer during their lifetime.2 While primarily affecting women, Sonya Carr notes that men can also be diagnosed (around 30-35 cases per year), as anyone with breast tissue is susceptible.2
Symptoms to watch for include a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size or shape, skin changes (puckering, dimpling, or an orange-peel texture), nipple changes (inversion, flattening, or discharge), and swelling in the armpit or collarbone.2 Regular self-examination is encouraged, and resources are available on cancer.ie to guide the process. “Get to know what is normal for you.”2
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Ireland, with just over 2,500 cases each year, and unfortunately, causes the most cancer-related deaths.2 Warning signs include wheezing, difficulty breathing, and a persistent cough.2
Changes in an existing cough, recurrent chest infections that don’t respond to antibiotics, coughing up blood-stained phlegm, and chest pain (especially with coughing or breathing) should also be investigated.2 Additional symptoms can include facial or neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss.2
Bowel Cancer
Roughly 2,500 cases of bowel cancer are diagnosed in Ireland each year.2 Key symptoms include changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two) lasting longer than three weeks, a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying, changes in stool frequency, blood in the stool (which may appear red or black), rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, a lump in the abdomen, bloating, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.2
Prevention and Screening
Sonya Carr emphasizes that lifestyle factors play a significant role in cancer risk. Reducing consumption of processed foods, particularly processed meats, and increasing fiber intake are beneficial. Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes five days a week) is also crucial.2
Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are strongly advised. The HSE’s Quit.ie program offers support and resources for smoking cessation, including nicotine replacement therapy.2
Ireland offers three free national screening programs: BowelCheck (for those aged 58 and older), CervicalCheck (for women over 25), and BreastCheck (for women over 50).2 BowelCheck involves a home testing kit, while CervicalCheck and BreastCheck require appointments with a GP or practice nurse. More information is available at bowelscreen.ie, cancer.ie, and breastcheck.ie, respectively.2
“If anything changes, please go to your doctor, as early detection is key.”2
This Daffodil Day, the Irish Cancer Society are urging you to stand with cancer patients and survivors and to Go All In Against Cancer. They urgently need your support to continue to provide free services for cancer patients and their families, as well as life-changing cancer research. Donate today at cancer.ie/daffodilday.
For more information on cancer, visit cancer.ie or ring the Irish Cancer Society’s cancer nurse support line on 1800 200 700.
The Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Centres, located nationwide, offer face-to-face support from experienced cancer nurses and volunteers.
To read the full article, pick up a copy of RSVP’s March issue, on shelves now.