Over half of people with moles, which are cancerous or at risk of skin cancer, have a history of sunburn or sunbed use, according to figures released by The MOLE Clinic.
In the past 12 months, the London-based independent skin cancer screening clinic screened more than 10,000 moles. This is a record figure in the company's 10 years of skin cancer screening.
What are the preventive measures to avoid skin cancer?
Virginia Hubbard, consultant dermatologist at London Bridge Hospital, recommends that people examine their skin every month.
"People with fair skin, who burn easily, and people with lots of moles should take particular care as these people are more likely to develop a skin cancer.
“Check your skin regularly. If in any doubt about any changes in a mole, seek expert help. Avoid sunburn of your skin. Use a sunscreen of at least SPF30, with UVA protection too. Use twice as much sunscreen as you think you need. Make sure you reapply every hour or so, especially if sweating or after swimming,” said Hubbard.
