Cancer An increase in age spots and skin tags is common after the age of 60, but according to a study from Cancer Research UK, it’s people in that age group who need to be more aware of changes in their skin.
Figures taken from the East of England Cancer Registry indicate that, despite concern about young people’s tanning habits, the over-65s were at increased risk of being diagnosed with melanoma at a late stage – when it is more likely to be fatal – than younger people. When they looked at the data they found that people over 65 were three times more likely to die from malignant melanoma than their younger peers. The figures have also risen in the last 30 years.
Although the study did not investigate why more older people are being diagnosed with late-stage melanoma, it could be the result of many factors, including more frequent foreign travel, increased exposure to harmful UV rays in the UK, as well as a lack of understanding of the potential risks and what to look for in terms of potentially cancerous moles.
Caroline Cerny, Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign manager said that everyone should be aware of the warning signs for malignant melanoma. These are:
- a mole as big as a pencil-top rubber
- a bleeding mole
- a sore or itchy mole
- a mole that is unevenly coloured or has jagged edges
- If you spot any of these signs, see your GP right away.
Age spots
Also called liver spots, these are the result of sun exposure but can also occur simply as you become older. You may inherit a tendency to develop them. Age spots occur where melanin – the dark pigment in your skin that creates a tan – clumps together in higher concentrations.
Skin tags
These are thought to be the result of collagen bunching up causing thicker skin which then traps blood vessels in that area. Often found in skin creases and folds, skin tags can also be a result of skin rubbing against skin. Risk factors include being overweight, diabetes and the human papilloma virus that causes warts.
Moles
These are clusters of pigmented skin cells that appear as dark brown spots. They come in a wide range of different brown hues – from light orangey brown to near-black brown – and may be raised or flat. They can occur almost anywhere on your skin. Most are harmless, but if you notice any irregularities such as growth, itchiness or a jagged edge, you should see your GP.
Tip: Take photos of moles so you can see if they grow or develop in any way. And get a partner or friend to check your back.
First published December 7, 2010