UK Skin Cancer Cases Hit Record High

UK Skin Cancer Cases Hit Record High –  Melanoma skin cancer cases have reached a record high in the UK, with an estimated 20,800 people expected to be diagnosed this year, according to Cancer Research UK.

The charity reports that melanoma rates have risen by nearly a third over the past decade, increasing from 21 to 28 cases per 100,000 people between 2007-09 and 2017-19.

The increase is especially significant among those over 80, with a 57% rise, while those aged 25 to 49 saw a 7% increase.

Cancer Research UK also highlighted that around 17,000 melanoma cases each year could be prevented, as nearly 90% are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV rays from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to skin cancer.

The charity advises people to seek shade, especially between 11 am and 3 pm. They recommend wearing protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protection sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four or five stars, reapplying it frequently.

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CRUK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, stated: “Survival rates for cancers, including melanoma, are improving thanks to research. However, it’s crucial for people to reduce their risk of developing the disease.”

She advises people to be cautious in the sun and to contact their GP if they notice any unusual changes in their skin, such as a new or changing mole, a sore that doesn’t heal, or any area that looks abnormal. Early detection can significantly improve outcomes.

The charity also noted that younger people are generally more aware of the sun-skin cancer link compared to older generations, who may have frequently taken advantage of cheap package holidays since the 1960s.

Other factors driving up skin cancer cases include a growing and ageing population, and better awareness of symptoms. Despite the rise in cases, survival rates for melanoma are improving, with almost 90% of adults diagnosed in England now surviving for ten years or more.

Dr. Claire Knight, senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, explained that getting sunburned just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer.

She emphasized the importance of sun protection, advising people to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four or five stars, even on cooler or cloudy days.

In April, experts announced that British patients are testing the world’s first personalized mRNA cancer vaccine for melanoma.

This vaccine, developed by Moderna and MSD, has shown promise in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence in trials and offers hope for treating other cancers like lung, bladder, and kidney cancer.

A final phase 3 trial is currently underway, led by University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH).

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Fidel Perez

A graduate of Computer Science and Information Management Technology. Diploma – Caregiving, Certificates – Dementia and Diabetes Awareness and Management. A researcher, blogger, songwriter, singer and acoustic guitarist. Born in an environment where natural talents such as healing are imparted at our natural birth. This natural talents of healing is the result of our genetic inheritance and the training from family environment.