What is melanoma and how can we combat it?

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK and experts are concerned about rising rates.

According to Cancer Research UK, around 16,700 people are diagnosed with melanoma every year, and the charity has warned these numbers could increase by over 50% in the next two decades.

Melanoma starts in our melanocytes - the cells which produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour and helps protect us from UV radiation - and occurs when abnormal cells spread uncontrollably. Key symptoms include new abnormal moles, and existing moles that are changing.

Surgery is the main treatment for melanoma, which is easier if it's caught early. Sometimes chemotherapy, radiotherapy and drugs are also required.

Dr Susan Mayou, consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic, says dermatologists are "definitely diagnosing more cases of melanoma" than in any previous year.

"This is partially because the public health awareness campaign has been so effective," says Mayou. "More people see dermatologists about abnormal moles than they used to, and we are able to diagnose melanoma, even pre-melanoma, early."

However, Dr Mayou is clear that the overall number of cases has increased as well, adding: "The majority of cases are related to sun exposure, and we are exposed to more UV rays now than we used to be."

As sun exposure is a key factor in melanoma, experts believe hotter summers could be playing a part in growing rates - and scientists predict 2024 could be our hottest year yet.

According to Cancer Research UK, more than 80% of melanoma cases in the UK are preventable.

Protecting skin from sun damage is key, by spending time in the shade on sunny days, wearing a hat and sunglasses and applying sunscreen generously and regularly - at least SPF 30, but Dr Mayou recommends SPF 50.