Skin cancer: 'The damage caused to my skin started over 30 years ago'

Martin Gillick has been treated for skin cancer twice in recent years, following long days spent working outdoors with the Defence Forces. He now applies sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days

Martin Gillick. Photograph Moya Nolan

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland, with almost 13,000 cases diagnosed annually. And the number is rising rapidly with the National Cancer Registry of Ireland projections suggesting the number of people diagnosed each year will double by 2045.

The 2023 Healthy Ireland SunSmart campaign aims to raise awareness of these facts and encourage people to stay safe in the sun as too much exposure can have a detrimental effect.