There are 10,000 people over 50 diagnosed with melanoma cancer in a year, according to a report released by Cancer Research UK. The staggering result is twice higher than the past two decades.

Melanoma cancer in Britain

The Cancer Research UK describes it as 'sun, sea and sangria generation' as they opted for cheap package holidays to get deep tans. People who were looking for sun exposure are now paying the consequences. Melanoma cancer cases in Britain are reportedly increasing each year. In the 90s, there were only around 3,000 cases. This also means that the melanoma diagnosis rates increase by 200 percent.

The people over 50s that were diagnosed with melanoma showed that women have higher survival rates since they tend to spot skin cancer moles earlier than men.

Researchers blamed the booming of cheap organized trips that allowed beach-goers to fly and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Since the birth of affordable holiday trips to overseas, people 'seek the sunlight' almost every year, Telegraph reported. And since tumors can take 20 years to develop, those who sunbathed two decades ago are paying the cost of UV overexposure. During the time, there's not much information about the damage caused by UV rays.

So, tanning causes skin cancer?

Getting tan does not mean people will develop melanoma skin cancer, but researchers argue that it does increase the chance. The malignant melanoma cancer rates continue to increase, thus, it is important for people to take care of their skin and avoid strong sun exposure.

Sunscreen helps; but do not rely on it alone

Researchers suggest using at least SPF 15 and reapply it regularly. However, it is best to combine the skin protections such as using hat, sunglasses, shirts and spending time in the shade between 11 am to 3 pm.

Reduce malignant melanoma cancer risk by avoiding sunburn

The sun can be the natural source of vitamin D but scientists suggest enjoying the summer sun safely by avoiding sunburn and 'protect the skin whenever possible'.

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