Key signs to look for as melanoma cases surge during heatwave after Katherine Ryan's shock diagnosis

With around 17,500 diagnoses of melanoma a year in the UK, it is the fifth most common type of cancer. With set to soar to 30C in some areas of the country, it's important to keep your skin safe in the sun.

Data analysed by leading expert at The Devonshire Clinic revealed searches for skin cancer have rocketed. It comes after comedian Katherine Ryan shared the news of her second melanoma diagnosis last week in an episode of her podcast Telling Everybody Everything, following a shocking misdiagnosis.

"Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, responsible for over 2000 deaths a year in the UK. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent it from spreading to other organs," Dr Conal Perrett, leading consultant dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic noted.

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He urges people to take melanoma scares seriously, as melanoma can spread to other parts of the body.

The doctor further noted: "While new therapies and treatments have significantly improved how we manage patients with melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body, it's still crucial to identify and diagnose melanoma early before it starts to spread.

"Once melanoma has spread to other organs, the outcomes for patients are significantly worse. If you are worried about any skin lesions, you should see you a consultant dermatologist urgently."

So to be safe, Dr Perrett advises checking your skin regularly for the following:

Rapidly growing moles

"If you notice a mole increasing in size over a few weeks, it's important to get it checked. Rapid growth can be a sign of melanoma or other types of skin cancer," he explained.

Colour changes in moles

Dr Perrett said if a mole changes its colour or develops multiple colours such as shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue "should be examined by a healthcare professional. Uneven colouring can be a warning sign."

Alterations in shape

Moles that change shape, especially if they become irregular or asymmetrical, may "indicate skin cancer," according to the expert, who said "it's important to monitor moles for any changes in their borders or overall symmetry."

Large moles

While moles can be any shape or size, those larger than 7mm should always be looked over by an expert as "larger moles have a higher risk of becoming cancerous," according to Dr Perrett.

Bleeding or oozing moles

If you notice your mole is starting to become sore or even starts to weep fluid, Dr Perrett urged to get it "evaluated promptly" as these symptoms could "indicate that the mole is undergoing malignant changes."

Itching or painful moles

"If a mole begins to hurt or becomes itchy, it could signify a change that warrants professional attention," the doctor said. "Persistent itching or tenderness in a mole should not be ignored."

If you have any skin or mole concerns it's advised to contact your GP or health advisor. More information on Melanoma can be found on the website .

Do you have a story to share? Email niamh.kirk@reachplc.com

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