Skin cancer rates soared over the last decade

Cancer Research UK has warned that skin cancer rates have ‘soared’ in the UK over the last decade, with increases particularly noticed in men and younger adults.

Men are more likely to develop skin cancers on their chests and backs and women on their legs, probably because of what they wear in the sun. However, with the risk to men also likely to increase if they have a job that means they work outdoors, the charity his warning that people needed to remember to protect their skin in the UK, as well as on holiday.

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK - with just under 16,400 cases in 2016, with 3,400 of those among those aged 25-49. The increase could possibly be attributed to the rise in cheap flights, which is allowing people to travel abroad more frequently.

Experts say almost nine in 10 cases could be prevented by using a high factor sun cream. They also advise: seeking shade when the sun is strongest (between 11:00 and 15:00 in the UK); covering up with clothing; and applying sunscreen regularly.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: "While some might think that a tan is a sign of good health, there is no such thing as a healthy tan, it's actually your body trying to protect itself from harmful rays."