Yahoo News Skin cancer cases at all-time high in UK as 20,800 people set for diagnosis this year
Melanoma skin cancer cases have reached record levels, with an estimated 20,800 individuals destined to be diagnosed this year across the UK. According to Cancer Research UK's analysis, melanoma rates have surged by almost one-third over a decade, shifting from 21 to 28 for every 100,000 people between 2007-09 and 2017-19.
The data showed an upward spike of 57% amongst those aged above 80, alongside a mild 7% increase in the 25 to 49 demographic. The research charity explains that around 17,000 cases of melanoma each year could be avoided, highlighting UV radiation as the culprit behind almost 90% of instances.
Sunlight's UV rays have the potential to vandalise DNA within skin cells, consequently leading to skin cancer. As precautionary measures, the organisation advises the public to stick to the shade particularly between 11am and 3pm, dress sensibly with hats and sunglasses offering UV protection, and regularly apply sunblock of at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars.
Emphasising the significance of prevention, Cancer Research UK's Chief Executive, Michelle Mitchell stated: "Survival from cancers including melanoma continues to improve, demonstrating the substantial progress made possible by research."
She added, "But it's vital that people try to reduce their risk of getting the disease in the first place. Make sure to take care in the sun and contact your GP if you notice any unusual changes to your skin – whether a new or changing mole, a sore that doesn't heal, or an area of your skin that looks out of the ordinary. Spotting cancer early can make all the difference."
According to the charity, younger individuals are more knowledgeable of the connection between sun exposure and skin cancer than their older counterparts who may have capitalised on the "cheap package holiday boom" from the 1960s onwards.
Rising cases are also being fuelled by an expanding and aging populace coupled with growing awareness of skin cancer symptoms.
However, statistics reveal that while melanoma cases increase, fatalities are on a downward trajectory, as almost nine in every ten adults diagnosed with melanoma in England now survive their disease for a decade or more.
Dr Claire Knight, senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: "Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, compared to never being burnt."
"Whether you are enjoying the good weather abroad or here at home, it's important to protect yourself from too much sun, especially if you burn easily."
"Remember that 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, clothing and sunscreen together."
"Seek shade in the middle of the day, cover up with a shirt that covers your shoulders, a hat and sunglasses and wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars. Make sure you put plenty on and reapply it regularly."
Last month, experts revealed that the world's first personalised mRNA cancer jab for melanoma which also has potential to halt lung, bladder and kidney cancer is undergoing trials in British patients. The "gamechanger" jab, offering a glimmer of hope for a cure, is custom-made for each individual within a matter of weeks.
A stage 2 trial of the jab, conducted by pharmaceutical companies Moderna and MSD, demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of cancer recurrence in melanoma patients. A final phase 3 trial is currently underway, spearheaded by University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH).
