Skin cancer diagnoses have reached record levels, with experts attributing the surge to the popularity of cheap package holidays abroad in the 1960s. Cases of skin cancer among middle-aged individuals in the UK have tripled, and it is predicted that the trend will continue for those in their 50s and older. Cancer Research UK has reported that there are now 17,500 new cases of skin cancer diagnosed annually in the UK. Furthermore, the charity has revealed that cases amongst individuals over the age of 54 have increased by 195% since the 1990s.
The rise in skin cancer cases is believed to be connected to the 1960s boom in package holidays, as Brits were able to afford affordable trips to sunny destinations such as Spain and other European hotspots due to the convenience of modern jet airlines. During this time, tanning oils were popular and sunscreen was not widely used, as people were unaware of the risk of skin cancer from sun exposure.
Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, expressed concern over the potential future increase in skin cancer cases. She emphasized the importance of seeking medical treatment for any unusual changes in the skin and encouraged individuals to be vigilant in protecting their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Mitchell also highlighted that 86% of skin cancers could be prevented, urging the public to take precautions and contact their GP if they notice any concerning changes in their skin.
Several factors may contribute to the rise in skin cancer diagnoses, including an aging population and increased skin checks. Despite the increase in cases, the death rate from skin cancer is declining due to early diagnosis and treatment. However, Cancer Research UK estimates that cases of melanoma skin cancer across all age groups could rise by approximately 50% over the next two decades, reaching a record high of 26,500 cases per year by 2040.
The historical shift in attitudes towards sun exposure is believed to have played a role in the rising rates of skin cancer. In the 1960s, sunbathing was popularized and products such as tanning oils were marketed with claims that they would make the skin look younger and fresher. It wasn’t until the 1990s that UVA blockers were added to sunscreens, sunscreen protection levels increased, and awareness of the risks associated with sun exposure grew.
CRUK’s Head of Health, Dr. Julie Sharp, advised individuals to take necessary precautions to reduce their risk of skin cancer, especially those who burn easily. Spending time in the shade, wearing protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses, and regularly applying sunscreen are essential steps in protecting the skin.
To emphasize the importance of sun safety, Justine Sheils, a 52-year-old skin cancer survivor from Liverpool, shared her experience of being diagnosed with malignant melanoma in 2006. Sheils admitted to regularly using sunbeds and neglecting to use sunscreen while on holiday as a teenager. Now more cautious in the sun, she hopes her story will encourage others to prioritize sun safety and seek medical attention if they notice any suspicious changes in their skin.
To identify potential signs of skin cancer, the NHS advises monitoring moles for any changes. Melanomas tend to have an asymmetric shape, uneven edges, and a mixture of two or more colors. They are often larger, typically more than 6mm wide, and may be swollen, sore, bleeding, or itchy. If individuals notice any new moles or changes in existing moles, they should consult their GP.
By raising awareness of the risks of skin cancer and promoting sun safety, it is hoped that the number of future cases will be reduced, enabling more people to survive this disease.
