On Air Archive

Skin Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, with more than 70,000 new cases each year, yet the majority of cases could be prevented. Over the last few decades the incidence of skin cancer has increased dramatically. Currently malignant melanoma - the most deadly form of skin cancer - is the fastest growing cancer in the UK, with more than 8,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

The number of men dying from malignant melanoma continues to rise, whilst the number of women dying from the disease is starting to fall. The survey indicates that this is due to women taking a more pro-active approach when it comes to protecting their skin, through covering up in the midday sun, wearing sunscreen, avoiding long periods of exposure and checking their skin for changes. However, more than 800 women and 900 men in the UK are still dying each year from the disease.

If the most deadly form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, is caught in its early stages the majority of cases can be cured. However if it is not found until later, when it has spread, it is much more difficult to treat and the survival rate after 5 years is less than 5%."

SAFE Checklist
Whether you are in the UK or abroad, protect your skin by://Covering up in the sun and staying in the shade when the sun is at its strongest, between 11am and 3pm avoiding long periods of exposure to the sun //Wear factor 15+ sunscreen

Take extra care with children and if you have fair skin//Regularly check your skin new sores and lumps that do not heal after a month//Spots or sores that bleed, itch, develop a crust or hurt

Unexplained skin ulcers

New or existing moles which appear to be growing or changing shape

New or existing moles which are a range of shades of brown and black

New or existing moles which are larger than 6mm in diameter

New or existing moles which have jagged edges

Visit your GP immediately if you notice any unusual changes to your skin or moles