The Imperative of Early Melanoma Detection and Comprehensive Cancer Support Systems
Mayo Cancer Support Achieves Full Alliance Membership, Marking 25 Years of Service
Dublin, May 23, 2024 – Mayo Cancer Support is celebrating 25 years of providing compassionate care and has officially achieved full membership in the Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres (ACCSC). This milestone underscores the organization's commitment to excellence and high-quality psycho-social support for individuals and families affected by cancer.
A Quarter-Century of Compassionate Care
For over 25 years, Mayo Cancer Support has been a vital resource, offering emotional support to those impacted by cancer diagnoses and bereavement. The organization is a registered charity dedicated to serving the local community through comprehensive, free-of-charge services, including:
- Professional one-to-one counseling
- Complementary therapies
- Group activities
- Survivorship programs
- Children’s services
Based at Rock Rose House in Castlebar, with outreach centers in Ballina and Achill, Mayo Cancer Support ensures accessibility to its services across the region.
The Significance of ACCSC Membership
The ACCSC fosters a collaborative environment for community-led cancer support initiatives and advocates for integrated care pathways for cancer patients and their families. Full membership in the Alliance signifies a high standard of quality, akin to a “Q mark” for community cancer support centers. It demonstrates compliance with the National Cancer Control Program’s (NCCP) best practice guidance in delivering community-based psycho-social services and survivorship programs.
Leadership Perspective
Orla Gillespie, Manager of Mayo Cancer Support, emphasized that achieving full ACCSC membership was a key project in 2024 to mark the organization’s 25th anniversary. The process involved a rigorous self-assessment and peer review to ensure the services meet best practice standards. Gillespie also acknowledged the dedication of the staff and board members in achieving this milestone.
Securing full Alliance membership assures service users and medical professionals of the quality and efficacy of the services offered by Mayo Cancer Support.
Understanding Melanoma: Early Detection Saves Lives
Skin, the body's largest organ, requires vigilant care to detect early signs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Early detection dramatically increases survival rates.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma develops in melanocytes, the cells producing melanin. Although less common than other skin cancers, it is more aggressive. It can appear anywhere on the body, including under nails and on the soles of feet. If it spreads, treatment becomes challenging; hence, early detection is crucial.
Why Early Detection is a Game-Changer
Early detection results in a 99% five-year survival rate, compared to a 27% rate in later stages. Melanoma starts small, often as a new or changing mole. Early treatment usually involves surgical removal.
Why Warning Signs Are Missed:
- Lack of awareness
- Neglecting checks
- Misidentification of suspicious moles
The ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection
Use this guide to examine moles and skin spots:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- B – Border: Irregular, blurry, or jagged edges.
- C – Color: Uneven color with shades of black, brown, red, white, or blue.
- D – Diameter: Usually larger than a pencil eraser (6mm), but can be smaller.
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or symptoms like bleeding or itching.
Prevention Tips
- Use Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+, reapply every two hours.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Hats, sunglasses, and UPF-rated clothing.
- Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay indoors or seek shade between 10 AM and 4 PM.
- Skip Tanning Beds: Avoid the risk.
Regular Check-Ups
Professional skin exams by dermatologists are essential, especially for those with:
- History of sunburns
- Family history of melanoma
- Fair skin or many moles
Dermatologists use tools like dermatoscopes for detailed skin examinations.
Conclusion
Early melanoma detection is crucial for manageable and treatable outcomes. Regularly check your skin using the ABCDE guide, protect against UV damage, and schedule annual dermatologist exams.
Contact Data
For more information about Mayo Cancer Support, visit Mayo Cancer Support, email [email protected], or call 094 9038407.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the ACCSC?
The Alliance of Community Cancer Support Centres, a program of the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), aims to develop community-led cancer supports and integrated care pathways.
Where is Mayo Cancer Support located?
Mayo Cancer Support is based at Rock Rose House in Castlebar, with outreach centers in Ballina and Achill.
Are Mayo Cancer Support services free?
Yes, all services, including counseling, therapies, and programs, are available free of charge to cancer patients, survivors, and their families.
