In the UK we are lucky enough to experience plenty of spring and summer sunshine, which we bask in. Yet we still seem unaware of the dangers and damage our beloved sun can do to our skin.

Melanoma of the skin is the 19th most common cancer worldwide and skin cancer is the 5th most common form of cancer in the UK. The positive though is that most skin cancers can be cured if detected early, and 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK are preventable.

Wear sunscreen, cover up and seek shade

Simple things like wearing sunscreen that protects against UVB and UVA rays and is SPF30 or higher, and covering up with protective clothing, are the best ways to stay safe when going out in the sun. If you can, stay indoors during the peak hours of 11am-3pm or seek some shelter in the shade.

There are two main types of skin cancer; melanoma and non-melanoma.

Melanomas are less common, but they are one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer. They can develop from existing moles, but they more often appear as new marks on the skin.

The ABCD system

The ABCD system tells you some of the things to lookout for. A melanoma may show one or more of the following features:

A – Asymmetry: the two halves of the area differ in their shape.

B – Border: the edges of the area may be irregular or blurred, and sometimes show notches.

C – Colour: this may be uneven. Different shades of black, brown and pink may be seen.

D – Diameter: most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter.

Non-melanoma skin cancers are more common than melanomas and tend to appear gradually anywhere on the body. They are most common on the areas of skin most exposed to the sun such as the head, neck, lips, ears and the backs of hands. Old scars, burns, ulcers or wounds that do not heal are also more at risk. This form of skin cancer will often not be painful.

Some of the possible signs to look out for with non-melanoma skin cancer are:

• A scab or sore that will not heal.

• A scaly or crusty patch of skin that is red or inflamed.

• A flesh coloured bump that won't go away and grows in size.

• A volcano like growth with a rim and a central crater.

As with all cancers, early diagnosis is key, and if you are referred by your GP to a specialist you should be seen within two weeks.

If in doubt, check it out!

Remember – if in doubt, check it out! Tell your doctor about any changes to a mole or patch of skin, or a new mole or mark on adult skin.