What is skin cancer?

Cancer occurs when damaged cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, causing a tumour to develop. When this occurs in the skin, it is known as skin cancer. Since skin cancer generally develops in the outermost layers of skin where the tumour is clearly visible, this enables most skin cancers detectable in the early stages.

What are the causes of skin cancer?

One of the most well-known and common causes of skin cancer is exposure to UV rays.  If you have a history of sunburn, have had over all sun exposure throughout your life (i.e. working outdoors) and have used sun beds, you have an increased risk of developing skin cancer.

Work related skin cancer

Skin cancer can also be caused by working in an unsafe environment. This is because skin cancer can be caused by exposure to ionising and non-ionising radiation and certain other chemicals in the workplace.  These include:

• Coal tar
• Soot
• Pitch
• Asphalt
• Creosols
• Paraffin waxes
• Petroleum derivatives
• Cutting oils
• Arsenic.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

If you find any new abnormalities on the skin that do not go away after four to six weeks or existing skin abnormalities change, then you should visit your GP. 

Skin cancer can appear as:

• A spot or sore that does not heal
• A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, scab, crust or bleed
• Areas where the skin has broken down or formed an ulcer with no obvious cause and does not heal.

It is important that you make a habit of checking your own skin on a regular basis, particularly if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer or have had treatment for a previous skin cancer. 

What should I do if I think I have skin cancer?

If you have been suffering with any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should contact your GP as soon as possible.

Your GP may then refer you to a specialist for further tests, to determine whether or not you have developed skin cancer.

Can I make a claim?

Yes - If you have been diagnosed as suffering with a work related illness you may be able to make a claim for compensation.

Call us on 0800 0384 384 for a no cost consultation with one of our experienced Industrial Illness Solicitors who will discuss your condition and inform you if you can make a claim and how we can help you with your compensation claim.