Death rates from melanoma among UK men have doubled in 30 years. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease but are less likely to die from it.

Figures published on 31 May 2010 by the organisation Cancer Research UK indicate a significant rise in deaths from melanoma in the United Kingdom. The figures show that the increase has occurred both for men and for women but that the rise is substantially greater among men (Cancer Research UK, “Men’s Skin Cancer Death Rates Double in the Last Thirty Years”, 31 May 2010).

These facts will inevitably make many men uneasy about the possibility of developing melanoma and perhaps this research finding will inspire them to research the causes and risk factors for this disease.

We at MyHealthPortal have put together the facts about melanoma and discuss the possible reasons why men appear presently to be more affected than women.

What is melanoma?

Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It is both preventable and treatable if diagnosed early. Skin cancer is a disease in which skin cells lose the ability to divide and grow normally. These abnormal skin cells can then grow and form a mass or tumour.

Most skin growths are benign - or innocent. Melanoma is malignant because it can metastasise - which means spread to other parts of the body.

How do I calculate my risk?

Everyone is at risk of developing melanoma - but there are, of course, factors which can increase the risk in some individuals. When looking at risk factors, these would include family history of skin cancer, skin type (fairer skin is more susceptible), the incidence of moles on the skin and any previous episodes of melanoma.

The most important risk factor is exposure to sunlight as it is ultraviolet light which causes the cell damage. It is now recognised that a single episode of blistering in childhood or adolescence is enough to raise the risk of melanoma occurring. Unprotected or protracted periods of sunbathing or use of tanning machines is known to increase the risk also.

How do I lower my risk?

When out in the sun, use a cream with a high sun protection factor. However, whilst these creams may prevent sunburn, (caused by UVb light), they may not protect against the more toxic UVa light. So; do not lie out in the heat of the day, especially in hotter climates. Remember burning is one of the main risk factors for melanoma. Lying in the shade will be more pleasant as the temperature will be lower and the risk of burning much less. If you are around water, it is still possible to burn from reflected light, just as it is possible to burn when the weather is overcast.

Look after childrens' skin. Their skin is extremely vulnerable. The regular application of cream with a high sun protection factor is vital and they should certainly be kept out of the sun during the hotter part of the day, when other pastimes should be pursued. It is also possible now to purchase 'sunsuits' for young children; the fabric of which has been treated so as not to allow the burning rays of the sun to penetrate.

Why are men more at risk of dying from Melanoma?

In the late 1970's fewer than 400 men died from malignant melanoma. That figure is now more than 1,100. The highest death rates have occurred in men over the age of 65, which have soared from 4.5 per 100,000 to 15.2 per 100,000 since the late 1970's. There have been several theories put forward about the reasons for this.

Firstly, many men work outdoors and perhaps play sport outdoors as well. It is considered by many males that the application of a protective sun cream is not a priority - and prefer to rely on their partners or Mothers to remind them about the risk. they may for these reasons spend many hours exposed to high levels of sunlight with no protection.

Many men will not visit the doctor is they notice a mole has developed - or an existing lesion has changed in some way. Whether this is because they do not recognise the risk, or because it does not cause any pain or discomfort, or simply because it is not considered a 'manly' thing to do. As long as it is known and accepted that melanoma is treatable if diagnosed early, perhaps men will visit the doctor if they know what to look for.

What to look for

Melanomas may form from an existing mole or freckle or begin to grow from an area of the skin which appeared normal. Any change in the a mole's appearance or the growth of a new mole may be a sign of skin cancer. Suspicious moles or freckles should always be checked by a doctor.

Melanomas often show the ABCD symptoms

• Asymmetry; when one half of the growth has a different shape to the other.

• Border irregular; when the growth has scalloped or uneven edges

• Colour varied; when the growth has more than one colour.

• Diameter; when the size of the lesion is larger in diameter to that of the end of a pencil

However, any mole or freckle which gets larger, changes in appearance, becomes itchy or painful, looks inflamed or weeps, should be checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.

Regular self-examination is the only way to monitor any growth or change in skin lesions. A good time to do this is right after a bath or shower and should be carried out on a monthly basis. By checking your skin regularly, you will become familiar with what is normal for you. Remember that melanoma is most curable when diagnosed early.