Spot skin cancer early

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who develop it is increasing. Over 2,600 people die from skin cancer each year in the UK. The good news is that if the signs and symptoms of skin cancer are  spotted early it's easier to treat and the chances of survival are higher.

James' story

James from Bury St Edmonds was 21 when he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.

With friends and family concerned about a mole he had had all his life, he went to his doctor to have it checked out and the diagnosis wasn't what he was expecting at all.

You may have some moles or dark patches on your skin that are flat or slightly raised. Usually these remain harmless all your life. But moles or patches of skin that change in size, shape or colour over weeks or months in adult life should be  shown to your doctor.

Watch James' video, hear his story and learn why spotting skin cancer early is important

View a  transcript of James' film