A leading cancer charity reports that diagnoses of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, have reached a new peak in the UK. Figures show more than 20,000 cases in 2022, the first time the total has exceeded this level. Cancer Research UK analysis indicates the number could climb to 26,500 new cases each year by 2040, with projected rises of 23% for men and 26% for women. The charity links the increase to the UK’s growing and older population. The findings coincide with forecasts of hot weather over the bank holiday weekend, prompting heat-health alerts in parts of England. The charity’s chief executive noted that most melanoma cases are preventable and urged people to use shade, cover up and apply sunscreen when the sun is strong. Anyone noticing changes to their skin, such as new or altering moles or non-healing sores, should consult a doctor. Melanoma ranks as the fifth most common cancer in the UK, with nearly nine in ten cases linked to ultraviolet exposure from the sun or sunbeds. Experts stress that sunburn at any age raises risk and recommend protective measures including high-factor sunscreen, hats and regular reapplication, even on cooler or cloudy days.
