Melanoma skin cancer cases in UK hit record level, analysis finds

Melanoma cases in the UK rose above 20,000 for the first time, reaching 20,980 diagnoses in 2022. Cancer Research UK projects that by 2040 there could be 26,500 new melanoma cases each year in the UK, a 23% increase in men and a 26% increase in women. The rise is linked to the UK’s growing and ageing population. The projections come alongside forecasts for hot weather, including heat health alerts across England. Cancer Research UK says most melanoma cases are preventable through sun safety behaviors such as seeking shade, covering up, and using sunscreen. Unusual or changing skin spots should be checked by a GP, since early diagnosis and treatment can make a major difference.

"Melanoma cases in the UK have risen above 20,000 for the first time ever, with 20,980 people being diagnosed with the form of cancer in 2022, according to analysis of the latest figures by Cancer Research UK. The charity has projected that by 2040, there could be a record 26,500 new cases of the disease every year in the UK, an increase of 23% in men, and 26% in women."

"The increases in skin cancer cases reflect the UK's growing and ageing population, the charity said. This latest analysis comes as the UK is forecast to face a heatwave this bank holiday weekend, with temperatures expected to reach up to 30C in some parts of the country. Yellow heat health alerts, indicatingtemperates could place vulnerable people at risk, have been issued across England by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office."

"Michelle Mitchell, the 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."

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