Demand for skin cancer screening increases

Figures released today by The MOLE Clinic® show that demand for their private skin cancer screening service is rapidly increasing, with a 20% rise in screenings in the year to August 2019 compared to the same period last year. The figures also show that more than 15,000 people were screened at the clinic in this 12 month period, with younger adults making up a large portion of patients.

The announcement follows recent Cancer Research UK statistics which confirmed a 70% increase in melanoma rates, since the 1990s, in those aged between 25 and 49 years old. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer.

Iain Mack, CEO of The MOLE Clinic, said “The average age of people coming to us for skin cancer screening is now just 40 years old. The increasing demand we’re seeing, and this lower average patient age, indicates younger adults are becoming more aware of the risk of skin cancer – which is good news, as early detection saves lives.”

Melanoma skin cancer incidence rates have increased by 45% since 2004, according to Cancer Research UK. While both health professionals and charities are aiming to raise awareness of the severity, risks and causes of skin cancer, 1 in 5 screened at The MOLE Clinic say they have used sun beds, and 20% admit to having been sunburnt more than 10 times in a ten year period.

“Skin cancer can be caused by excessive UV — sun or sunbed exposure — and treatment is more likely to be successful if the skin cancer is detected early,” adds Dr. Amelie Seghers, Dermatologist at The MOLE Clinic. “Regular screening is an effective way to detect skin cancer early.”

However, while screenings are on the rise, there is still one demographic that is proving to be a concern for The MOLE Clinic team, and this is males. Only 40% of MOLE Clinic patients are men and with statistics reported by Cancer Research UK of a 55% rise in melanoma rates amongst males, much higher than the 35% increase the charity confirms is seen amongst women, the team fears that there isn’t enough awareness of sun safety and skin cancer amongst men.

“I would urge everyone, and that includes men, to get their moles and freckles regularly checked by an expert,” continues Mack. “I founded The MOLE Clinic following my own diagnosis with melanoma. I was lucky — my melanoma was caught early by chance — but many are less fortunate. Mole checks are quick and painless, but could save your life.”

The award-winning clinic has five skin cancer screening centres in central London and recently opened its sixth in Harley Street, in the heart of London’s premier private medical and surgical district.

To find out more about The MOLE Clinic, visit: www.themoleclinic.co.uk