NHS issues urgent ‘check your skin’ warning for illness that kills thousands

A simple change on your skin may appear harmless and can be easy to ignore, but health experts are urging people to take it more seriously. As Skin Cancer Awareness Month begins, the NHS has issued a warning encouraging the public to take action before it's too late. In a post shared on the official X account, an NHS spokesperson said: "This #SkinCancerAwarenessMonth, check your skin and contact your GP if you're worried about any signs that could be cancer. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body." The NHS also advised people to use the ABCDE checklist to chock potential warning signs of the illness. This includes checking for asymmetry, border irregularity, colour changes, as well as diameter and evolving moles. Melanoma is considered one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer because it can spread quickly if left untreated, according to the health service. The NHS says it often develops from an existing mole, but it can also appear as a new mark on the skin. Other symptoms can include itching, bleeding or crusting of a mole, which should not be ignored. Any unusual or persistent changes should be checked by a GP as soon as possible. Data from Cancer Research UK shows melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK with around 16,700 new cases every year. The charity says rates have more that doubled since the early 1990s. It also says that around 2,300 people die from melanoma annually. Despite this, however, survival rates are high if caught early with around 90 per cent surviving 10 years or more. The main cause of melanoma is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from the sun or sunbeds, says the NHS. It explains that repeated sunburn, particularly in childhood, can significantly increase the risk later in life. Cancer Research UK claims around 86 per cent of melanoma cases are preventable, and are often linked to excessive UV exposure. This means taking simple precautions like wearing SPF, seeking shade and avoiding tanning beds can make a major difference. According to the NHS, people with fair skin, freckles, red or blonde hair, and those with a large number of moles are at greater risk. A family history of skin cancer can also increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Health experts stress that while many skin changes are harmless, it is always best to seek advice if something seems unusual. Contacting your GP early could be key to preventing the disease from spreading.