Skin cancer has been the cause of several deaths around the world in recent tomes and you can't be too careful checking yourself to be sure you don't have it. These are certain signs you must not joke with.
Illustrative photo
Hugh Jackman is being treated for skin cancer for the fifth time – do you know the symptoms to look out for?
Actor Hugh Jackman announced that he is being treated for skin cancer again and has warned fans to “wear sunscreen”.
The 48-year-old has basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer in the UK according to the British Skin Foundation.
The X-men star had to have the cancerous growth cut out of his nose and took a photo of himself wearing a bandage.
Alongside the photo he said: "Another basal cell carcinoma.
"Thanks to frequent body checks and amazing doctors, all is well.
"Looks worse with the dressing on than off. I swear! #WearSunscreen."
Skin cancer is the fifth most common form of cancer in the UK and rates are continuing to rise.
At least 13,500 new cases are now diagnosed each year and rates are four times higher than they were in the 1970's, according to Cancer Research UK.
There are three types of skin cancer: malignant melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).
Factors including sun exposure, skin colour, freckles and a family history of the disease, can increase your chances of getting skin cancer.
Age is also a factor – the older you are the more likely you are to develop non melanoma skin cancer, but skin cancer can develop in young people too.
But while many people now know to check their moles for changes in colour and texture, most don't know the other early warning sings.
Here are five skin cancer symptoms you should look out for:
1. A Spot Or Sore
Spots and sores are common. But if you have one that doesn’t heal within four weeks, get it checked.
Also, look out for a spot or sore that hurts, is itchy, crusty, scabs over or bleeds for more than four weeks.
2. Ulcers
Look out for an area of skin that's broken down (an ulcer) and doesn't heal within four weeks and you can't think of a reason for this change.
3. A Lump
This might be small, slow growing, shiny and pink or red.
4. Red Patches On Your Skin
These red patches could also be itchy. This could be due to other non cancerous skin conditions. But get it checked to make sure.
5. Spotting Signs Of Skin Cancer
Non melanoma skin cancers tend to develop most often on skin that's exposed to the sun. To spot skin cancers early, it helps to know how your skin normally looks. That way, you'll notice any changes more easily.
To check your back or other areas you can’t see easily get your partner or a trusted friend to check. This is very important if you regularly sunbathe or work outside without a shirt on.
If you have any of these symptoms you should see your doctor immediately. Your GP can then decide whether you need any tests and offer you the relevant treatment.
UV exposure is the main preventable cause of skin cancer, so here are a few tips on how to stay safe in the sun:
1. Cover Up
Wear light clothing that covers your arms and legs and a hat to shield your face from the UV rays. Also make sure your eyes are protected with UV protective sunglasses.
2. Wear Sunscreen
It's not only important to wear suncream, it't important to wear the right stuff. Make sure you use a factor of at least SPF30.
Ideally look for a four of five star UVA rating on the bottle and apply a generous layer 20 to 30 minutes before going out..
3. Seek Shelter
Suncream can only do so much to protect your skin against UV rays. You should avoid sitting in the sun between 11am and 3pm, especially if you are very fair skinned.
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