Key signs of skin cancer to look out for after Sarah Ferguson diagnosis

21 January 2024 , 18:27

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Key signs of skin cancer to look out for after Sarah Ferguson diagnosis

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with skin cancer.

Dermatologists removed a mole from her body and sent it for tests, which came back confirming she had a malignant melanoma - the most serious form of skin cancer. It came just six months after being treated for breast cancer. She's said to be in "good spirits" but "distressed" after being hit with a second cancer diagnosis in six months.

Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer to be diagnosed in the UK, but there are still plenty of people that are unaware they're at risk. You should regularly check your skin for the key signs of cancer - particularly if you've been spending more time outdoors.

Doctor holding magnifies glass with 5 characteristics of skin damage from cancer cell (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The sun and ultraviolet radiation and damage the skin, and subsequently, lead to skin cancer. Diagnosing skin cancer early is crucial for treatment, which is why everybody should know what signs to look out for.

Regularly examining your skin is the easiest way to know if you're at risk. You should particularly be looking out for changes to any existing moles. Speak to a doctor or dermatologist if you're unsure about the growths on your skin.

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Common skin cancer symptoms

• Unusual skin growth
• Sore that doesn't go away
• New rash or nodule
• Irregular patch on the surface of the skin
• Spots that ooze or bleed easily

"Regular examination of the skin for any new or unusual growths, or changes in the size, shape or colour of an existing spot, is key to finding and treating skin cancers early," said the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

"If you find anything suspicious, you should discuss it with your primary care physician or a dermatologist. While many skin cancers develop in areas exposed to the sun, they may also develop in areas that are usually hidden from the sun. It is important to examine all of these areas. In addition to examining the legs, trunk, arms, face and neck, it is important to look for signs of skin cancer in the areas between the toes, underneath nails, palms of the hands and soles of the feet, genitals and even the eyes."

More than 150,000 people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer every year in the UK. But the number could be much higher, because it's often left undiagnosed.

Melanoma, the more severe type of skin cancer, affects around 13,500 people every year. Speak to a doctor if you're worried about the signs or symptoms of skin cancer.

Matt Atherton