Malignant melanoma rates have risen remarkably in Northern Ireland over the past 25 years from an average of 48 cases per year in the mid 70s to 180 cases per year at present.

Over exposure to solar ultra-violet radiation is the main cause of most skin cancers, including melanoma.

Ultra-violet radiation is part of the sun's electromagnetic spectrum and is stronger nearer the equator, at higher altitude, in conditions of poor cloud cover, and when the sun is directly overhead. There is continuing evidence that exposure to sunlight and sunburn in childhood is important in the development of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. An increased risk of melanoma has been demonstrated in those people who report having used solariums or sun beds, including those which emit UVA only.


Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in Northern Ireland, as it is in many countries throughout the world, and is becoming more common. The absolute number of skin cancers, including melanoma, is expected to increase here. This is partly the effect of changing risk factor exposure (sun bathing) and partly due to the increasing number of older people in the population. The potential for an increase due to a reduction in the ozone layer is also worrying. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, tends to occur in younger people compared with other skin cancers with about half of the melanomas occurring in those under 60, compared with a fifth of other skin cancers.

Animal studies indicate that if exposure to sunlight can be reduced by 50% it will take twice as long to develop a skin cancer tumour. Evidence from animal studies has also shown a significant reduction in non melanoma skin tumours occuring when sunscreens are used.