Accordingto figures published by Cancer Research UK in 2011, it is estimated that around100,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the UK annually, making itthe most common type of cancer. Killing more than 2,500 people in the UK everyyear, it is vital that skin cancers are detected and treated early, as swiftdiagnosis can help save lives.

The FHThas endorsed and contributed to the development of a new skin cancerinformation leaflet, launched on 21 June by the Melanoma Taskforce and BritishAssociation of Dermatologists (BAD) as part of their campaign to improveawareness and early detection of skin cancer.

SiânJames MP, Chair of the Melanoma Taskforce, said:

‘Theseguidelines represent a major step forward in raising awareness of theimportance of early detection of skin cancer.’

Aimedspecifically at well-being, hair and beauty professionals, the guidelines havethe support of MPs, high-profile celebrities and industry leaders, includingactress and presenter Amanda Holden, TV and radio presenter Sarah Cawood, andcelebrity make-up artists Ruby and Millie.

Whileprofessionals in the well-being, hair and beauty industries are not expected todiagnose skin cancers, they are uniquely placed to be able to notice changes inmoles or suspicious lesions when working with clients. The guidelines provideclear and simple information on how to spot the signs of skin cancer, and howprofessionals can encourage their clients to seek medical advice.

Tohighlight the vital role that therapists can play, the guidelines include ashort case study by Ray Vyse, MFHT,who noticed a mole gradually change on one of his regular massage clients. Heencouraged the client to have it checked by her GP, who promptly diagnosed amalignant melanoma. The client had the mole removed and has fortunately had the‘all clear’ at each of her follow-up appointments.

MassageWorld certainly endorses these guidelines and would encourage all it’ssubscribers to download them at the web address below.

The Moleand Skin Check guidelines are available to download from the BritishAssociation of Dermatologists’ website at: www.bad.org.uk/melanoma-taskforce]