UK Melanoma Cases Exceed 20,000 for First Time in 2022 Data

The number of new melanoma skin cancer cases diagnosed in the UK reached 20,980 in 2022, the most recent full year for which data are available. Cancer Research UK stated that the figure marks the first time annual cases have exceeded 20,000. The charity said too much exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or sunbeds is the main cause, with an estimated nine in every ten cases thought to be avoidable.

UK recommends spending time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, covering skin with clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four or five stars. The charity also advises reapplying sunscreen regularly and combining it with shade and clothing.

It noted that sunburn is a clear sign of skin damage, though damage can occur without visible burning or pinkness.

Health and Prevention Minister Sharon Hodgson said sunbeds cause cancer and that children as young as 14 are still accessing them illegally. She stated that new rules requiring mandatory ID checks are being considered to close loopholes that allow teenagers to use contactless payment systems.

Dance, a mother of two from Berkshire, was diagnosed with malignant melanoma at age 39 after noticing a suspicious mole. The cancer was removed at an early stage before it had spread, and she said the surgery saved her life. Dance said she has pale skin and many moles, placing her at higher risk, and that she now uses factor 50 sunscreen and covers up even though she does not use sunbeds or sunbathe.

She urged others to check for skin changes and contact a GP promptly.