May marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing knowledge about skin cancer, encouraging preventative measures, and highlighting the importance of early detection.
Most skin cancer cases are caused by sun exposure and studies show that 86% of cases could have been prevented. Skin Cancer Awareness Month aims to educate people on how they can stay safe in the sunshine and what symptoms to look out for.
Skin cancer cases in the UK are on the rise, according to statistics, with as many as one in four men predicted to be diagnosed in their lifetime. However, with early detection and diagnosis, most cases are curable.
Types of skin cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK, with rates having increased dramatically over the past decades. It primarily affects people with lighter skin tones who are more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
There are three primary types of skin cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most frequently diagnosed form, BCC typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a pink growth and tends to grow slowly.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Often presents as a red, scaly patch or a wart-like growth. SCC can be more aggressive than BCC and may spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly.
- Melanoma: The deadliest type, melanoma can develop from existing moles or as a new dark spot on the skin. Early detection is crucial, as melanoma can quickly spread to other organs.
Skin cancer statistics
In the UK, approximately 16,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year, and it is the fifth most common cancer. Cases of non-melanoma skin cancers are even higher, with around 156,000 cases annually.
Meanwhile, according to Cancer Research UK, around 2,500 deaths from skin cancer occur each year.
Skin cancer symptoms
Regular skin cancer checks on yourself will help with early detection and diagnosis. Look for new or changing spots, growths, or moles, and use the ABCDE method to evaluate moles:
- Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
- Border: Edges are irregular or blurred.
- Colour: Varies from one area to another.
- Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour, or new symptoms such as bleeding or itching.
If you notice any suspicious changes, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
Skin cancer prevention and protection
Prevention is key to reducing the risk of skin cancer. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of skin cancer:
- Limit sun exposure and avoid the sun during peak hours, typically between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Remember to reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Stay out of the sun, and opt for the shade under trees or umbrellas
- Avoid tanning beds as these use concentrated UV radiation which can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
Further reading
Medical misdiagnosis or delay – Oakwood Solicitors
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Carol Cook joined Oakwood Solicitors in May 2017 to lead the Medical Negligence Department.
Carol handles a wide range of clinical, cosmetic and dental negligence claims and has years of experi…
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