The UK has recorded more than 20,000 new cases of melanoma skin cancer in a year for the first time, marking a significant rise in high-risk skin cancer diagnoses. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and this increase highlights ongoing public health concerns related to ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun and sunbeds.
Why this matters
Melanoma can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. The rise in cases signals a growing health risk linked to UV exposure, which is largely preventable. Understanding the causes and taking precautions can reduce the incidence of melanoma and improve early diagnosis, potentially saving lives.
Key developments
- In 2022, there were 20,980 new melanoma cases diagnosed in the UK, the highest number recorded.
- Cancer Research UK estimates that nine out of ten melanoma cases are avoidable with proper sun safety measures.
- Women tend to be diagnosed at younger ages, often due to sunbathing and sunbed use, while men have higher rates later in life linked to long-term sun exposure.
- Overdiagnosis and increased awareness may also contribute to the rising numbers.
- Under-18s are banned from using sunbeds, but some teenagers still access them illegally through contactless payments.
- The government is considering new rules requiring mandatory ID checks to prevent underage sunbed use.
Prevention and advice
Cancer Research UK emphasizes that melanoma can be prevented by reducing UV exposure. Recommended precautions include:
- Using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a high star rating (four or five stars).
- Seeking shade during peak sun hours.
- Wearing protective clothing and hats.
- Regularly checking skin for unusual changes such as new or changing moles, sores that do not heal, or any areas that look out of the ordinary.
Sunburn is a clear sign of skin damage, but damage can occur even without visible burning or redness. People with all skin tones are at risk of sun damage and should take precautions.
Personal story
Rebecca Dance, a mother of two from Berkshire, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma at age 39 after noticing a suspicious mole. The cancer was caught early and removed surgically, which she believes saved her life. She stresses the importance of vigilance and sun safety, especially for those with pale skin or many moles.
“My whole life flashed in front of me because I just thought, ‘Oh my God, I’ve got cancer.’ I was in complete shock… I was always really careful in the sun, but the sun makes people happy – of course it does. But I’ll always be extra careful, use factor 50 suncream and cover up.”
Rebecca advises people to monitor their skin regularly and consult a GP promptly if they notice any changes.
Government response
Public Health and Prevention Minister Sharon Hodgson highlighted the dangers of sunbeds, especially for children who still access them illegally. The government is working to close loopholes that allow underage sunbed use and to ensure users understand the risks involved.
What to watch
- Implementation of mandatory ID checks for sunbed users to prevent underage access.
- Public health campaigns promoting sun safety and early detection of skin cancer.
- Further research into the causes of rising melanoma rates and effective prevention strategies.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
