About skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who develop it is increasing.

Most skin cancers are caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation - the kind found in sunlight and  sunbeds. These cancers could be prevented if we protect ourselves from overexposure to these rays.

About skin cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who develop it is increasing.

Most skin cancers are caused by too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation - the kind found in sunlight and sunbeds. These cancers could be prevented if we protect ourselves from over exposure to these rays.

Types of skin cancer

There are two main types of skin cancer:

  • malignant melanoma - the most serious type of skin cancer
  • non-melanoma skin cancer - more common and easily treated

Find out about  who is at risk and  how to check your moles.

 Malignant melanoma

Key sites for malignant melanoma in men Malignant melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It usually develops in cells in the outer layer of the skin. The first visible signs of this may be a change in the normal look or feel of a  mole.

More than 10,400 cases are diagnosed in the UK every year and the incidence of melanoma has gone up by more than four times since the 1970s. Rates of melanoma have risen faster than for any other cancer in the UK.

Over 2,600 people die from skin cancer each year in the UK, and most of these cases are due to malignant melanoma. In fact, there are more skin cancer deaths in the UK than in Australia, even though Australia has more cases of the disease.

Common malignant melanoma sites in women Melanoma is one of the few cancers to affect young adults and is the most common cancer amongst 15-34 year olds. But a person’s risk of developing melanoma increases with age.

More women than men develop malignant melanoma. Melanomas in women are most common on the legs and in men they are most common on the trunk. These parts of the body are usually covered but now and then, they are exposed to intense bursts of UV radiation while sunbathing or on a sunbed.

 Non-melanoma skin cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is much more common than melanoma but it is easily treated. There are over 76,000 new cases reported each year in the UK but not all cases are recorded. There may be at least 100,000 new cases every year.

These cancers are most common on areas of skin frequently exposed to the sun such as the head, neck, hands and forearms. There are two main sorts, both of which tend to affect older people.

Basal cell cancer, which is more common. It grows quite slowly and usually starts as a small round or flattened lump. The lump may be red, pale or pearly in colour. Sometimes it appears as a scaly, eczema-like patch on the skin.

Squamous cell cancer, which is more serious. It can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Squamous cell cancers appear as persistent red scaly spots, lumps, sores or ulcers, which may bleed easily.

Spotting skin cancer early

When skin cancer is found early it is much easier to treat. It is important to  look out for changes to your skin. If you do notice any changes then  visit your doctor as soon as possible.

More information about skin cancer

Share your story

We would like to hear from people with personal experience of skin cancer. If you would like to  share your story then please fill in our  online form. Sharing your story can help educate, motivate and inspire others.