Skin cancer cases hit record high as sun damage warning issued
Mother urges people to take precautions amid warnings of further spike in cases
The number of cases of the most serious form of skin cancer has hit an all-time high in Scotland amid warnings from a leading charity that the problem is set to “soar” over the next decade.
Newly published research by Cancer Research UK shows that the annual number of new melanoma cases throughout the country has risen above 1,600 for the first time, amid calls for people to stay safe in the sun.
However, the charity said that by 2040, the record could be rapidly overtaken, with as many 2,500 new cases of the disease each year, which would represent a 61 per cent increase.
It predicted that there could be an alarming 90 per cent spike in cases in men over the same period. Although women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer at younger ages, in later life rates are higher in men.
The charity said the latest annual spike, based on data covering the year 2022, underlined the need for people to spend time in the shade, cover up their skin, and apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and a four or five star rating.
Around 8 in 10 melanoma cases in Scotland are caused by too much UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds, and the charity said that taking steps to stay safe in the sun was key to reducing the risk of skin cancer.
One woman who was diagnosed with melanoma at the age of 39, said it was crucial to ensure young people are educated about sun safety.
Adele Hughes, a primary school teacher from Aberdeenshire, was told that the cancer had spread to her lymph notes, but after six surgeries and 18 cycles of immunotherapy treatments, she is in remission.
The mother-of-two, now 46, said: “I’d never wish anybody to go on that skin cancer journey. I had two young children and being told I had cancer blindsided me. When I look back on months of treatment, I realise how difficult it has been. I hope I can encourage people to think about their sun habits, take precautions and to never use sunbeds.”
Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive officer, said: “It's concerning to see the rising number of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer. The fact that most of these cases are preventable underlines the importance of people taking sun safety seriously.
“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.”
The charity said that overall increases in skin cancer cases largely reflect Scotland’s growing and ageing population. However, an increased public awareness of melanoma has also contributed to more people being diagnosed with, and treated for, the disease.
It stressed that vital developments in research, early diagnosis and treatment are helping people with melanoma skin cancer to live longer, better lives.
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