Men dying from skin cancer doubles in last 30 years
Cancer Research UK said the number of cases of malignant melanoma is rising in women faster than men
Tuesday, 01, Jun 2010 04:03
By Sarah Garrod.
The number of men who have died from skin cancer has doubled in the last 30 years, a leading cancer charity has warned.
Cancer Research UK said the number of cases of malignant melanoma - the deadliest form of skin cancer - is rising in women faster than men, but more men are dying from the disease.
Health experts are now warning both men and women that they must remember the dangers of the sun, and take necessary precautions to avoid sun burn. Cancer research has said it is concerned "because this sharp rise in death rates from malignant melanoma is due to so many more men developing what is largely a preventable disease".
Care services minister, Paul Burstow said: "The rise in skin cancer deaths among men is worrying and highlights how important it is for everyone to protect themselves from overexposure to sun. Seeing many people with sunburn from the recent sunny weather is a reminder of how easy it is to damage your skin.
"We should all keep a careful eye on our skin. Shrugging off any changes in a mole's appearance could put your life at risk. Always see your GP as soon as possible if you have concerns. When skin cancer is caught early treatment is more likely to be successful, and fast action could stop the significant rise we've seen in the number of deaths."