The number of people in the UK being diagnosed with skin cancer has hit a record high with a sharp rise among over-55s.
Melanoma cases across all age groups have reached 17,500 a year in the UK, the highest since records began, according to Cancer Research UK.
A boom in cheap package holidays in the 1960s has been linked to a rise in a serious type of skin cancer among older adults, the charity suggested. There has been a particular rise in cases among adults aged 55 and over.
Case rates among this age group have risen by 195% since the 1990s. Between 1993 and 1995, 21.3 people aged 55 and over were diagnosed with melanoma out of every 100,000; this rose to 62.9 cases a 100,000 in 2017-2019.
“The rise in rates in over-55s is likely to be linked to trends to have tanned skin and the cheap package holiday boom dating from the 1960s before people became more aware of skin cancer,” the charity said.
Other factors could also be at play, including a growing and ageing population, as well as more people getting their skin checked when they notice changes.
The charity estimated that across all age groups, melanoma skin cancer cases could increase by about 50% over the next 20 years, hitting a record 26,500 a year by 2040. However, despite the rise in cases, deaths from the disease are decreasing, it said. Early diagnosis and treatment mean more people than ever will survive the disease.
“Our new analysis paints a mixed picture for cancer patients and the staff who care for them,” said Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell. “While it’s promising that more people are seeking treatment for skin cancer earlier and survival is improving, it’s alarming that cases of the disease could soar over the coming years.
“Melanoma is the UK’s fifth most common cancer, and we know that 86% of these skin cancers could be prevented.
“It’s important to take care in the sun and to contact your GP if you notice any unusual changes to your skin – it’s not just changes to a mole that matter, it could be a sore that doesn’t heal or any unusual changes to an area of your skin. Spotting cancer early can make all the difference.”
A new mole or a change in an existing mole may be signs of melanoma. Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, the charity said.
Dr Julie Sharp, Cancer Research UK’s head of health and patient information, added: “Whether you are holidaying abroad or enjoying the good weather closer to home, it’s important to take steps to reduce your risk of skin cancer, especially if you burn easily.
“And remember sunburn doesn’t just happen on the hottest days, you can still get burnt when it’s cloudy.
“The best way to protect your skin when the sun is strong is to spend time in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm in the UK, and to cover up with a T-shirt, hat and sunglasses. Wearing sunscreen will also help you stay safe in the sun. Make sure you put plenty on and reapply it regularly.”
