The number of people being diagnosed with skin cancer in Ireland is rising rapidly, the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has warned.

With more COVID restrictions being lifted from Monday, the NCCP is reminding people of the importance of protecting their skin, as the number of those out and about is expected to steadily increase.

From Monday, children are allowed to resume outdoor sports training, golf courses and tennis courts can reopen, and outdoor amenities, such as Dublin Zoo, can reopen.

The NCCP's SunSmart campaign urges everyone to protect their skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to skin cancer. This is the most common type of cancer in Ireland, with over 13,000 new diagnoses every year.

Skin cancer is usually classified into two groups: melanoma, which is the more aggressive form, and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Between 2020 and 2045, it is predicted that the number of cases of melanoma per year will increase by 67%, while NMSC is expected to increase by 110%.

"With the new public health measures, people have more opportunity to enjoy getting outside. We want to remind everyone it is easy to enjoy the sun safely by following the SunSmart 5S's to mind their skin and reduce their risk of skin cancer," explained the NCCP's director of public health, Dr Triona McCarthy.

The 5S's are:
-Slip on clothing: Cover skin as much as possible, wear long sleeves, collared t-shirts, and clothes made from close-woven material that does not allow sunlight through
-Slop on sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30+ for adults and 50+ for children, with high UVA protection that is water-resistant. Reapply regularly. No sunscreen can provide 100% protection, it should be used alongside other protective measures such as clothing and shade
-Slap on a wide-brimmed hat: Protect your face, ears and neck
-Seek shade: Sit in the cover of trees to avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunshade on a buggy or pram. Keep babies and children out of direct sunlight
-Slide on sunglasses: Guard your eyes against harm by wearing sunglasses with UV protection.

The NCCP also advises people to never use a sunbed.

For more information on how to protect your skin, click here.