Urgent skin cancer warning as cases hit record highs, cheap vacation packages blamed
The cheap holiday package boom of the 1960s has been linked to an increase in a serious type of skin cancer among older adults, a charity has suggested.
New figures from Cancer Research UK reveal that melanoma skin cancer diagnoses across all age groups have reached a record high, with 17,500 people diagnosed each year in the UK.
Their latest projections suggest that cases could increase by almost 50 percent in the next 20 years, reaching a record 26,500 diagnoses a year by 2040.
The charity noted a particular increase in cases among adults aged 55 and over, who would have been born from 1968 onwards.
Case rates among this age group have nearly tripled since the 1990s.
Cancer Research UK noted a particular increase in cases among adults aged 55 and over, who would have been born from 1968 onwards. Case rates among this age group have nearly tripled since the 1990s. “The rise in rates in those 55 and older is likely related to tanning trends and the rise of packs.” cheap vacations dating back to the 1960s, before people became more aware of skin cancer,” the charity said.
Between 1993 and 1995, 21.3 people aged 55 years or older out of 100,000 were diagnosed with melanoma, which increased to 62.9 cases per 100,000 in 2017-2019.
“The rise in rates in those 55 and older is likely related to tanning trends and the rise of cheap vacation packages dating back to the 1960s, before people became more self-conscious. of skin cancer,” the charity said.
Other factors could also be at play, including a growing and aging population, as well as more people checking their skin when they notice changes.
But despite the rise in cases, deaths from the disease are declining, the charity revealed.
CRUK said early diagnosis and treatment means more people than ever will survive the disease.
Cancer Research UK chief executive Michelle Mitchell said: “Our new analysis paints a mixed picture for cancer patients and the staff caring for them.”
“While it is promising that more people are seeking treatment for skin cancer sooner and that survival is improving, it is alarming that cases of the disease could skyrocket in the coming years.
‘Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and we know that 86 per cent of these skin cancers could be prevented.
“It’s important to take care of yourself in the sun and contact your GP if you notice unusual changes to your skin – it’s not just changes to a mole that’s important, it could be a sore that won’t heal or any unusual change in a skin area. your skin. Early detection of cancer can make all the difference.’
Cancer Research UK’s director of health and patient information, Dr Julie Sharp, added: “Whether you’re holidaying abroad or enjoying the good weather closer to home, it’s important to take steps to reduce the risk of skin cancer, especially if it burns easily.
And remember that sunburn doesn’t just happen on the hottest days, you can also get burned 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 cover up with a T-shirt, hat and sunglasses.
‘Using sunscreen will also help keep you safe in the sun. Make sure you put on a lot and reapply regularly.
Getting a sunburn just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, the charity warned.
A new mole or a change in an existing mole can be signs of melanoma.
WHAT ARE CANCEROUS MOLES LIKE? CHECK IS AS EASY AS ABCDE
The more moles a person has, the higher their risk of developing melanoma.
The following ABCDE guide can help people identify moles that might need a medical checkup.
TOsymmetry
Be on the lookout for moles with an irregular shape.
Check for asymmetrical moles that have an irregular shape.
B.orders
Check for jagged edges.
People should look for moles with jagged edges and jagged edges
C.Color change
If a mole changes color or is a different color in one part than another, seek medical attention.
Moles that change color or have different colors within them should be checked
D.diameter
Any increase in size should be monitored, but be especially careful with moles that grow larger than about 6mm across.
Any change in size should be checked, but more than 6mm wide is very concerning
mylifting
Section E is generally classified as ‘elevation’; warning you to be careful with moles that protrude from the surface, especially if the surface is irregular.
However, Dr. David Fisher, director of the melanoma program at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains that many dermatologists have different classifications for this.
His favorite word is ‘evolving’.
Dr Fisher previously told MailOnline: ‘Is it changing? Do you notice anything suspicious or concerning? That is the key.
Beware of moles that are elevated or those that ‘myevolve over time
