According to recent research by Cancer Research UK (CRUK), the areas of the body most susceptible to developing skin cancer can differ between men and women as the number of melanoma cases is predicted to increase this year. CRUK analysis indicates that four out of ten melanomas in men are located on the torso, encompassing the back, chest, and stomach, equating to approximately 3,700 cases annually. On the other hand, more than a third of melanomas in women, specifically 35%, are found on the lower limbs from the hips to the feet and account for roughly 3,200 cases per year. These variations in the locations of melanomas are believed to stem from differences in behavior, with men often exposing themselves to sunlight without a shirt, while women may wear shorts or skirts as the weather warms up.
The study reveals that a significant 87% of melanoma cases, amounting to 17,100 annually in the UK, are attributed to excessive exposure to UV radiation. In the prior year, the UK witnessed a record high in melanoma skin cancer rates, witnessing new diagnoses rise by a quarter from 21 to 28 per 100,000 individuals between 2007-2009 and 2017-2019, based on CRUK data. There was a notable 57% increase among those over 80 and a 7% rise among the 25-49 age group. The charity anticipates a further surge, expecting 21,300 cases this year.
Michelle Mitchell, CRUK’s chief executive, emphasized the improvements in skin cancer survival rates as a result of their research efforts. However, she expressed concern over the increasing number of diagnoses, particularly noting that rates are rising more swiftly among men. Michelle called attention to the importance of early diagnosis, urging individuals with any unusual skin changes to consult their GP promptly.
Fiona Osgun, head of health information at CRUK, highlighted the significance of sun protection as the weather warms up. Osgun elaborated on how even occasional sunburn could triple the risk of developing melanoma. She recommended avoiding the sun during its peak hours, covering up, and using sunscreen with at least SPF30 and a high star rating.
Prof Peter Johnson, the national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, stressed the importance of prevention in dealing with skin cancer, urging individuals to avoid direct sun exposure and apply sunscreen effectively. Early diagnosis remains paramount for all cancers, with Prof Johnson affirming that timely medical attention can be life-saving.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/may/26/men-and-women-getting-skin-cancer-in-different-parts-of-the-body-study
