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The choice of clothing during sunny days could potentially influence the risk of developing skin cancer and its location, according to Cancer Research UK. The majority of melanoma cases, a common type of skin cancer, are due to excessive exposure to UV radiation, particularly during sunny summer days.
Analysis by Cancer Research UK revealed that 40% of melanomas in men were found on their torso (back, chest and stomach), more than any other part of the body. This is linked to the common practice of men removing their shirts in hot weather, while women rarely expose this part of their body to the sun.
For women, melanomas most commonly occur on the legs, from hips to feet, aligning with the tendency for women to wear shorts and skirts during the sunny months. The lower limbs are the least common place for men to develop melanoma.
When it comes to arms and shoulders, both genders have very similar rates of melanoma.
Researchers also pointed out that body shape might play a role in determining the location of melanoma, as men generally have larger torsos, but women’s legs make up a larger proportion of their body’s surface area on average.
As the UK experiences warmer weather, experts are urging people to take precautions against skin cancer by dressing appropriately and using sunscreen.
Wide-brimmed hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and loose clothing that covers your shoulders can significantly lower your risk of skin cancer by blocking harmful UV rays.
Alongside NIVEA Sun, specialists also advise seeking shade during peak sunlight hours and applying high-quality sunscreen consistently.
Cancer Research UK’s head of health information, Fiona Osgun, said: “As the weather gets warmer, it’s really important to look after yourself in the sun. Getting sunburnt just once every couple of years can triple your risk of melanoma skin cancer, compared to never being burnt.
“That’s why we encourage people to take some simple steps to stay safe. Try to stick to the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest, wear clothes that help cover up your skin, with a hat and sunglasses, and use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars.”
Fiona also highlighted that the danger of skin cancer extends beyond the summer months: “UV rays can be strong enough to cause skin damage between mid-March and mid-October in the UK, even when it’s cloudy or cool.”
Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, and its rates are on the rise. This year alone, it’s estimated that 21,300 cases will be diagnosed, marking a 22% increase from 2023, and if this prediction holds true, it will be the highest number of cases ever recorded.
