BBC reports on data from Cancer Research UK which reveals that melanoma rates in the UK have risen by almost a third in the ten years between 2009 and 2019. This worrying trend underscores the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to combat the disease.
The statistics
Other data from Cancer Research UK confirms that melanoma is now the fifth most common cancer in the UK with around 16,700 new cases being diagnosed each year. This equates to approximately 46 cases every day. Since the early 1990s, the incidence rate of melanoma has more than doubled, with a 140% increase overall. Notably, the rate has nearly tripled in males (186%) and has more than doubled in females (106%) over this period.
Age and gender factors
Melanoma primarily affects older adults, with the highest incidence rates found in individuals aged 85 to 89. However, it’s not limited to the elderly; cases are also rising among younger people, attributed to increased sun exposure and the popularity of tanning beds in past decades. Both genders are significantly affected, although the specific anatomical sites of occurrence differ. In women, melanomas are most commonly found on the lower limbs, while in men, the trunk is more frequently affected.
Projected increase
Looking ahead, the trend shows no sign of abating. Projections indicate that the number of annual melanoma cases could rise to around 26,500 by 2038-2040, marking a 9% increase from current figures. This anticipated rise emphasises the importance of robust preventive strategies and effective treatment options to manage the growing burden of this disease.
Risk factors
The primary risk factor for melanoma is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, with a higher incidence in individuals with fair skin, light hair, and a family history of the disease. Increased awareness about these risk factors and proactive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing melanoma.
Advances in treatment
On a positive note, advancements in treatment are providing hope for those affected by advanced melanoma. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recently recommended a new drug combination which has shown promise in clinical trials, improving progression-free survival rates compared to existing treatments.
Survival rates are positive compared to other cancers with almost nine in ten adults surviving for 10 years or more. Melanoma UK says that:
“If you have had an early melanoma, with no spread to your lymph nodes or any other part of your body, then it is highly likely that simply removing it will cure you”.
Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, says survival from cancers including melanoma continues to improve “demonstrating the substantial progress made possible by research”. However, it is essential to try and reduce people’s risk of getting the disease in the first place and melanoma is more difficult to treat in the later stages.
Preventive measures
Preventive measures include:
- Sun protection: Regular use of sunscreen with high SPF, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours and taking steps to avoid burning, can significantly reduce UV exposure and lessen risk.
- Avoiding tanning beds: Eliminating the use of tanning beds, which emit harmful UV radiation, can lower the risk of melanoma.
- Regular skin checks: Monthly self-examinations are essential. Melanoma UK provides guidance and resources on its website regarding carrying out regular skin checks and there is also a handy self-examination video and smart speaker guidance.
Symptoms
According to Melanoma UK about half of all melanoma starts with a change in previously normal-looking skin. The ABCDE symptoms to look out for include:
Asymmetry
- Ordinary moles are usually symmetrical whereas melanomas tend to be an irregular shape or asymmetrical.
Border
- Ordinary moles usually have a well-defined, clear, smooth-edged border. Melanomas are more likely to have a blurred or irregular border with jagged edges.
Colour
- Whereas ordinary moles tend to be one colour, melanomas tend to more than one colour. They may have different shades such as brown mixed with black, red, pink or white tints.
Diameter
- Melanomas are usually more than 6mm wide
Evolving
- Any changes to a mole for example in the size, shape of colour should be discussed with your GP
Comment
The rising rates of melanoma in the UK are a cause for concern, but with increased awareness, preventive measures, and advances in treatment, it is possible to combat this trend. Public health initiatives focused on education about UV protection and the dangers of tanning beds, combined with continued research into more effective treatments, are essential in reducing the incidence and impact of melanoma.
For more detailed information and resources on melanoma, you can visit Cancer Research UK and Melanoma UK.
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