UK melanoma skin cancer cases hit record high, charity warns

Melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK have reached a record high, according to an analysis by Cancer Research UK.

For the first time, diagnoses of the most serious form of skin cancer exceeded 20,000, with 20,980 people diagnosed in 2022, the charity said.

Cancer Research UK projected that by 2040, there could be 26,500 new cases annually, a 23% increase for men and 26% for women, driven by an aging and growing population.

The analysis coincides with forecasts of a heatwave across the UK over the bank holiday weekend, with temperatures expected to reach 30C in some areas. Yellow heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, warning that temperatures could put vulnerable people at risk.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said it was concerning to see the rising numbers of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancers across the UK.

“The fact that most of these cases are preventable underlines the importance of people taking sun safety seriously,” Mitchell said. “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.”

Melanoma skin cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and the most common globally. Nearly nine in 10 cases 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.

Last year, analysis by the same charity found that areas of the body most likely to develop skin cancer vary between men and women. While four in 10 melanomas in men are found on the torso, including the back, chest and stomach, about 35% in women are found on lower limbs, from hips to feet.

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. 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. Make sure you put plenty on and reapply it regularly. Even if you’ve been sunburnt before, it’s never too late to start protecting your skin.”

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.

“With sunny weather forecast this bank holiday, we want people to enjoy the sunshine 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 then please don’t wait to contact your GP because catching cancer early really does save lives.”