Cancer Research UK raises Melanoma warning after 20,980 UK diagnoses
Melanoma diagnoses in the UK reached 20,980 in 2022, the first time the number rose above 20,000. Cancer Research UK said the rise came as the country’s population grows and ages, and it projected more cases by 2040.
Michelle Mitchell, the charity’s chief executive, said it was concerning to see the rising numbers of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancers across the UK. She added: “The fact that most of these cases are preventable underlines the importance of people taking sun safety seriously.”
Michelle Mitchell on sun safety
Mitchell urged people to protect themselves when the sun is strong: “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.” She also said: “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.”
She added: “It probably won’t be cancer, but if it is, getting it diagnosed and treated early can make all the difference.”
Cancer Research UK projections for 2040
Cancer Research UK projected that the UK could see 26,500 new melanoma cases every year by 2040. It also projected a 23% increase in melanoma cases in men and a 26% increase in women.
Prof Peter Johnson, national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, 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.” The charity said nearly nine in 10 UK melanoma cases are caused by overexposure to UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds.
Heat alerts and UV exposure
The figures land as the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office issued yellow heat health alerts across England ahead of a bank holiday heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach up to 30C in some parts of the UK over the weekend. Fiona Osgun, head of health information at Cancer Research UK, said: “Sunburn is a clear sign your skin has been damaged.”
Osgun said: “Sunburn doesn’t only happen when it’s hot – it can happen on cooler or cloudier days too.” She added: “The best way to protect your skin when the sun is strong is to use shade, particularly in the middle of the day. Cover up, especially your shoulders, and wear a hat and sunglasses and finally, wear sunscreen, with at least SPF 30 and four or five stars.”
She said: “Make sure you put plenty on and reapply it regularly.” Cancer Research UK also said having five or more sunburns doubles the risk of melanoma.
