May is Skin Cancer Awareness month and there is a growing concern over the high levels of skin cancer we are now seeing in the UK.

We are helping to raise awareness and encourage people to know the signs of skin cancer. We want more people to be diagnosed at an earlier stage. Regularly checking your skin for signs of skin cancer can help lead to an early diagnosis and increase your chance of successful treatment

There are two types of skin cancers:

Non-melanoma refers to skin cancers which develop in the upper layer of your skin (the epidermis). These types of skin cancers don’t spread to other parts of your body. Non-melanoma cancers usually develop in areas which are most exposed to the sun such as your face, ears, hands, shoulders, upper chest and back.

Melanoma can spread to other parts of your body which is why it’s the more serious type of skin cancer.

Macmillan Cancer Support have produced a booklet explaining skin cancer, covering the causes and symptoms, diagnosis, staging and grading, treatments and clinical trials. It also talks about emotional, practical and financial issues.

Risk factors

Some people are more at risk of developing skin cancer than others. It’s important to know the main risk factors so you can decide which apply to you:

• a previous non-melanoma skin cancer
• a family history of skin cancer
• pale skin that burns easily
• a large number of moles or freckles
• taking medicine that suppresses your immune system
• a co-existing medical condition that suppresses your immune system

Brown or black skin is more susceptible to a type of melanoma that is not associated with sun exposure. This appears on the palms, soles, under the nails and in mucosal membranes such as the mouth. These areas should be regularly checked for people with this skin type.

You can find out more by following the link below.