Melanoma skin cancer cases in UK hit record level, analysis finds | Skin cancer
The number of cases of the most serious form of skin cancer has reached a record high across the UK, according to analysis by a leading cancer charity.
Melanoma cases in the UK have risen above 20,000 for the first time, with 20,980 people diagnosed with the type of cancer in 2022, according to the latest figures from Cancer Research UK.
The charity predicts there could be a record 26,500 new cases of the disease each year in the UK by 2040, with the figure increasing by 23% for men and 26% for women. The charity said the rise in skin cancer cases reflected the UK’s growing and aging population.
This latest analysis comes as the UK faces a heatwave this bank holiday weekend, with temperatures expected to reach up to 30C in some parts of the country. Yellow temperature health warnings have been issued across England by the UK Health Safety Agency and Met Office, stating that temperatures could put vulnerable people at risk.
Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said the increasing number of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer across the UK was worrying.
“The fact that many of these cases are preventable underscores the importance of people taking sun safety seriously,” said Mitchell. “Be careful when the sun is strong by seeking shade, covering up, and applying sunscreen, and consult your doctor if you notice any unusual changes in your skin.” Whether it’s a new or changing mole, a wound that won’t heal, or an area of your skin that looks unusual, it’s important to get it checked. “It probably won’t be cancer, but if it is, early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference.”
Melanoma skin cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and the most common cancer worldwide. Around nine in 10 cases of melanoma in the UK are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds. Having five or more sunburns doubles the risk of melanoma.
Analysis by the same charity last year found that the areas of the body where people are most likely to develop skin cancer differ between men and women. In men, four out of 10 melanomas are found on the trunk, including the back, chest, and stomach, while in women, about 35% of melanomas are found in the lower extremities, from the hips to the feet.
Fiona Osgun, chief health information officer at Cancer Research UK, said: “Sunburn is a clear sign that your skin has been damaged. Whether you’re out and about or enjoying being at home, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun.
“Sunburn doesn’t just happen in hot weather; it can also happen on cooler or cloudy days. When the sun is strong, the best way to protect your skin is to use shade, especially in the middle of the day. Cover up, especially your shoulders, wear a hat and sunglasses, and finally, use a four- or five-star sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Make sure you apply generously and reapply regularly. Even if you’ve had a sunburn before, it’s never too late to start. We’re protecting your skin.”
Prof Peter Johnson, NHS England’s national cancer clinical director, said: “Melanoma skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers and these figures are a stark reminder of the importance of staying safe in the sun.
“With sunny weather forecast this bank holiday, we want people to enjoy the sun sensibly by using high-factor sunscreen, covering up and seeking shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
“And if you notice anything unusual, like a new mole, a changing lesion, or any patch of skin that doesn’t look right, please don’t wait to contact your doctor, because catching cancer early really saves lives.”
