PEOPLE in Yorkshire are seven times more likely to get skin cancer than 40 years ago, Cancer Research UK has said.

According to the charity, on average around 5,700 pensioners are now diagnosed with melanoma each year compared with just 600 in the mid 1970s.

While age is one of the biggest risk factors for melanoma, the huge increase in pensioners being diagnosed with the disease is likely to be linked to the cheap package holiday boom dating from the 1960s and the desirability of having a tanned appearance.

Nicki Embleton, Cancer Research UK’s spokesperson for Yorkshire, said: “Many cases of malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, are preventable by taking precautions in the sun and making sure you don’t burn.

“Sun damage accumulates over time so avoiding sunburn – and sunbeds - is key as well as getting to know your skin type so you don’t overdo it on the beach or even in the garden.

“You can burn at home just as easily as you can on holiday, so remember to spend time in the shade, wear a T-shirt and a hat to protect your skin and regularly apply sunscreen that is at least Factor 15 and has four or more stars. Swapping bad sun habits for good ones could save your life.”

Every year in Yorkshire and The Humber around 990 people are diagnosed with malignant melanoma and around 160 people die from the disease.

It is the fifth most common cancer overall in the UK and the second most common cancer in young adults aged 15 to 34.

Cancer Research UK and Nivea Sun are working in partnership to encourage people across the region to enjoy the sun safely this summer.

The partnership offers simple advice that people can follow to make sure they have a great summer while protecting their skin. For more information visit http://www.sunsmart.org.uk/