Skin & Cancer Facts - Melanoma

Experts predict rates of melanoma will double every 10 to 20 years in Europe and North America. Caught early, melanoma poses little threat but caught late it can kill.

Around a third of all cases occur in people aged less than 50. Melanoma is more common in affluent areas. Research shows incidence rates in the most affluent areas are nearly twice as high as those in the most deprived areas. The highest rates for melanoma occur in southwest England. Higher than average rates were also reported for Northern Ireland, Scotland, Ireland and much of southern England.

People with red and light hair, light skin tone, many moles and a history of sunburn or sun-bed use are at highest risk of melanoma. Those with a family history of melanoma have double the risk of developing the disease.