The UK has recorded its highest ever number of diagnoses for melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, with more than 20,000 people now affected annually.
New figures from Cancer Research UK reveal 20,980 new cases were identified in 2022 alone, marking an unprecedented peak.
Ahead of a sunny bank holiday weekend, the charity has urged the public to prioritise sun safety.
It advises covering up and diligently applying sunscreen to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Worryingly, Cancer Research UK’s analysis projects a significant increase in the coming years. Annual melanoma diagnoses are expected to reach 26,500 by 2040.
This forecast indicates a 23 per cent rise for men and a 26 per cent rise for women over that period.
Overall, women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer at younger ages, while men experience the condition more often in later life.
Higher rates among younger women tend to be linked to sunbathing and sunbed use, while in older men it is long-term exposure to the sun that causes harm.
Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: “It’s concerning to see the rising number of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer across the UK.
“The fact that most of these cases are preventable underlines the importance of people taking sun safety seriously.
“Take care when the sun is strong by seeking shade, covering up and applying sunscreen and, if you notice any unusual changes to your skin, contact your GP.
“Whether it is a new or changing mole, a sore that doesn’t heal, or an area of your skin that looks out of the ordinary, it’s important to get it checked out.
“It probably won’t be cancer, but if it is, getting it diagnosed and treated early can make all the difference.”
Cancer Research UK said overdiagnosis, where cancers that would not go on to cause harm are diagnosed, could also be playing a role in rising rates, alongside increased awareness.
Ahead of the sunny weather, the charity and its partner for the campaign, Nivea Sun, is advising people to take care.
The tips are:
- Seek shade, especially between 11am and 3pm in the UK. Take a break under trees, umbrellas, and canopies, or go indoors.
- Cover up with clothes, a wide-brimmed hat and UV protection sunglasses. Clothing should cover the shoulders at least.
- Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four or five stars. Make sure to reapply it regularly and generously, especially after swimming, sweating or using a towel.
Fiona Osgun, head of health information at Cancer Research UK, said: “Sunburn is a clear sign your skin has been damaged. Whether you are enjoying being outside abroad or at home, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun.
“Sunburn doesn’t only happen when it’s hot – it can happen on cooler or cloudier days too.”
Mother-of-two Rebecca Dance, from Wokingham in Berkshire, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma aged 39.
She noticed a suspicious mole on her back and was referred by her GP to hospital, where it was removed.
Now 44, she said: “My whole life flashed in front of me because I just thought ‘oh my God, I’ve got cancer’. I was panicked and upset.
“I tried to live life as normal as I could between the diagnosis and surgery, but it was weighing on my mind.
“I’m a single parent and my worst fear was dying. I had my 40th birthday weeks before the surgery and I remember just breaking down on the night of it.
“In the run-up to the surgery, I would wake in the morning at 5am and cry and break out in tremors and sweats.
“There’s this perception that skin cancer only happens to people who use sunbeds or sunbathe.
“But I’m a normal person that’s just got very pale skin and a lot of moles and it happened to me, too.
“Don’t delay speaking to your GP if you notice any changes – I believe it saved my life.”
