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Skin cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. There are two main types of skin cancer, melanoma and non-melanoma. Each year in the UK alone there are around 15,400 people are diagnosed with melanoma and as many as 156,000 people are diagnosed with non-melanoma, that’s nearly 430 people every day. Older age and exposure to the sun are the biggest risk factors.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK and rates continue to rise. There are two main types of skin cancer - melanoma and non-melanoma - which occur when skin cells grow and divide irregularly.
In the majority of cases this abnormal growth is caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or from sunbed use. As a result, skin cancer usually develops on the parts of the skin which are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, lips, ears and neck. In some instances skin cancer may develop on parts of the body which aren’t typically exposed to sunlight, such as the palms and genital area. In these cases UV light is not thought to be the underlying cause.
You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by limiting your UV exposure and getting to know your skin and how it looks normally, so that you can examine it regularly for any suspicious changes and get them checked by an expert. Diagnosing skin cancer early makes it much easier to treat and can improve outcomes, so it’s important to know what to look for.
What is a melanoma and the signs and symptoms to be aware of?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when skin cells called melanocytes grow and divide more quickly than usual, which is typically caused by UV damage. While it is less common than non-melanoma, it can be serious if left untreated as melanomas can penetrate deeper layers of the skin and spread to other parts of the body.
Melanomas are most commonly found on the skin which is most frequently exposed to the sun but can be found anywhere on the body. Melanoma can develop from an existing mole or from a new mole which has appeared more recently.
Signs and symptoms
A melanoma can develop anywhere on the body but it’s more common in areas that are regularly exposed to the sun. The first sign is usually a new spot on the skin, or a change in shape, size or colour of an existing mole or freckle.
- In most cases, melanomas have an irregular shape and have more than one colour
- The mole may also be larger than normal and can sometimes bleed or get itchy
- Look out for a mole that gradually changes shape, size or colour
A useful way of remembering the signs and symptoms of melanoma is using the A-G guide for recognising abnormal moles in the video below.
Sign of an abnormal mole: Know your A-G
If you notice any changes to your skin, even if they are not included on this page, please make sure you speak to your GP. They will be able to refer you to a dermatologist for further investigation if required.
Alternatively you can arrange to see one of our expert dermatologists at a location convenient to you.
How to prevent skin cancer
Sun safety
Staying safe in the sun is the most effective way to protect against skin cancer. Dr Robert Sarkany, Consultant Dermatologist at The Lister Hospital, explains how to stay safe whilst enjoying the sunshine.
Understanding skin cancer risk factors
The majority of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from the sun, sunbeds or tanning lamps, but there are other important factors to be aware of which can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, including your age, your skin type and other medical conditions.
Dr Stephanie Ogden, Consultant Dermatologist at The Wilmslow Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, tells us more about skin cancer risk factors and ways you can reduce your personal risk.
What is a non-melanoma and the signs and symptoms to be aware of?
Non-melanoma skin cancers develop slowly in the upper layers of the skin and are not connected to moles. They tend to develop on parts of the skin which are exposed to the sun, so typically on the face, head, back and lower legs. They’re more common than melanoma but are not as likely to spread to other parts of the body. Most non-melanoma can be effectively treated and cured if detected early.
The most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer in the UK is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). BCC grows very slowly and is very unlikely to spread to other parts of the body. Early diagnosis is still important as treatment is more difficult for BCC’s that have been there for a long time and can be more likely to grow back.
The second most common non-melanoma skin cancer in the UK is Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). These cancers grow slowly but are more serious than a BCC because there is a small chance these cancers could spread to another part of the body.
Signs and symptoms
The appearance and symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancers can vary, but they normally appear gradually and slowly increase in size. Some of the common signs to look out for are a lumpy, sore or scabby area of skin which:
- Doesn’t heal within 4-6 weeks
- Is painful and itchy, or bleeds
- Has an unusual appearance. It could be crusty, scaly, discoloured or inflamed
- Is increasing in size
If you notice any changes to your skin, even if they are not included on this page, please make an appointment with your GP. They will be able to refer you to a dermatologist for further investigation if required. Alternatively, you can arrange to see one of our expert dermatologists at a location convenient to you.
Skin cancer specialists
Find a dermatologist
A consultant dermatologist is a doctor who specialises in multiple skin conditions including skin cancer.
If you are concerned about changes to your skin or would like to seek specialist advice on how to manage your risk of developing skin cancer, such as mole mapping services, you can contact a Consultant Dermatologist at HCA Healthcare UK to book an appointment.