The rise in a serious type of skin cancer has been linked with the cheap package holiday boom of the 1960s, a charity has suggested.

Cancer Research UK said 17,500 people are now diagnosed with melanoma, the most serious type of the disease, in the UK every year.

A new analysis by the charity found the increase was particularly noticeable in over-55s, with cases up 195% since the 1990s.

“The rise in rates in over-55s is likely to be linked to trends to have tanned skin and the cheap package holiday boom dating from the 1960s before people became more aware of skin cancer,” the charity said.

Other factors could also be at play, including a growing and ageing population as well as more people getting their skin checked when they notice changes.

The Northern Echo: A rise in skin cancer is related to people not being knowledgeable about protecting their skin on sunny holidays from decades prior, Cancer Research UK says A rise in skin cancer is related to people not being knowledgeable about protecting their skin on sunny holidays from decades prior, Cancer Research UK says (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire)

The charity has estimated that across all age groups, melanoma skin cancer cases could increase by around 50% over the next 20 years, hitting a record 26,500 a year by 2040.

But despite the rise in cases, deaths from the disease are decreasing, it said.

Rise of melanoma cases 'alarming'

CRUK said that early diagnosis and treatment means that more people than ever will survive the disease.

Cancer Research UK’s chief executive Michelle Mitchell said: “Our new analysis paints a mixed picture for cancer patients and the staff who care for them – while it’s promising that more people are seeking treatment for skin cancer earlier and survival is improving, it’s alarming that cases of the disease could soar over the coming years."

She added: “It’s important to take care in the sun and to contact your GP if you notice any unusual changes to your skin – it’s not just changes to a mole that matter, it could be a sore that doesn’t heal or any unusual changes to an area of your skin. Spotting cancer early can make all the difference.”

Melanoma skin cancer symptoms

On the NHS website, the symptoms of melanoma are usually related to a new mole appearing or a change in an existing mole.

Melanomas can appear anywhere on your body, but they're more common in areas that are often exposed to the sun.

Some rarer types can affect the eyes, soles of the feet, palms of the hands or genitals.

Check your skin for any unusual changes. Use a mirror or ask a partner or friend to check any areas you cannot see.