General Interest

LIFESTYLE-ASSOCIATED CANCERS ON THE INCREASE
9th August 2007
A steep increase in the number of cancers linked to excessive sun exposure, alcohol, smoking and obesity has been revealed in statistics from Cancer Research UK. Over the last 10 years, womb cancer rates have increased by more than 20 per cent, kidney cancer by more than 10 per cent and melanoma - the most dangerous form of skin cancer - by over 40 per cent. The charity said around half of all cancers could be prevented by lifestyle changes.

Melanoma Rates On The Increase
9th August 2007
A survey carried out by Cancer Research UK has been published showing:
a) The rates of melanoma have risen by over 40% in the past decade, making it the fastest rising cancer in the UK
b) The rates of malignant melanoma are higher in women and have doubled since the mid 80s, and the rates for men have tripled in the same period.
Heavy sun exposure accounts for the vast majority of cases and that most cases could be prevented if people protected themselves in the sun and took care not to burn.

Sunbathers Aware Of Dangers Of The Sun
Sunbathers who plan to get burnt on the beach this summer, will do so in the full knowledge that they are permanently damaging their skin. A survey carried out by Cancer Research UK showed that 40% of sunbathers questioned, believed that sun burnt skin was all part of the tanning process. The survey also highlights the dangers of sunbeds. For further information on the recommendations go to www.cancerresearchuk.org/news/pressreleases

Men Are Twice As Likely To Die From Cancer
The Mens Health Forum (MHF) have written a report showing that men are nearly twice as likely as women to develop and die from virtually all the cancers that can affect both sexes, and this includes malignant melanoma. The report highlights the fact that the incidence of melanoma is higher in women than men but the male death rate is higher. (May 2007)
For further information on the recommendations go to www.menshealthforum.org.uk

Brits Are Still Getting Sunburn
A survey carried out by CancerResearch UK showed that despite warnings many Britons suffered sunburn due to excessive sun exposure. The survey was carried out for Sun Awareness Week as part of Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign, which is urging British holidaymakers to take care in the sun and avoid painful and unsightly burning. (May 2007)
For further information on the recommendations go to
www.cancerresearchuk.org