Experts have issued a new warning about the hazards of the sun after cases of the deadly skin cancer, melanoma, jumped by six per cent last year.
More than 10,000 people were diagnosed with the disease in Britain, an increase of 650, according to Cancer Research UK.
The charity warned that, at present rates of increase, the annual number of new cases would reach more than 15,000 in 15 years. The incidence of the disease has already quadrupled in 30 years.
More women than men are being diagnosed with the disease – reflecting the link to tanning.
Sara Hiom, of Cancer Research UK, said: "With the rates of malignant melanoma in the UK rising faster than any other cancer it’s more important than ever that people are aware of the dangers of getting burnt, either in the sun or from using sunbeds.
"Most melanoma skin cancers are caused by over exposure to UV rays given off by the sun and sunbeds. But, crucially, if people are careful not to redden or burn, especially if they have fair, freckly or moley skin then most cases of malignant melanoma could be prevented.
"We advise people to enjoy the sun safely by spending time in the shade in the middle of the day, covering up with appropriate cool clothing and sunglasses and applying plenty of sun cream of at least factor 15."
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