What can we learn from Katherine Ryan’s melanoma diagnosis?

She’s best known for leaving people in hysterics, but comedian Katherine Ryan shared some serious news recently as she revealed she had been diagnosed with skin cancer for a second time.

After noticing changes to a mole on her arm, Katherine visited her doctor and tests later revealed it was early melanoma. Thankfully, the cancerous mole has since been removed from her arm. But it’s not the first time she has faced a cancer diagnosis. Back in 2004 when she was a student in Toronto, Katherine had what she described as a “golf ball-sized” lump removed from her thigh.

So, what can we learn from Katherine’s cancer diagnosis? The health experts at YourGP believe by sharing her experience so openly on her Telling Everybody Everything podcast, Katherine is helping to raise awareness of skin cancer and she could potentially save lives. And this is something that is needed now more than ever.

Last year, Cancer Research UK revealed skin cancer cases had reached an all-time high, with a new analysis showing an increase of almost a third over the past decade. The earlier melanoma is caught and treated, the better the outcome. So read on to find out what you need to look out for.

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer. It develops from melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its colour. It most commonly develops in areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, arms, back and legs.

How can you reduce your risk of developing melanoma?

Age, skin colour and family history can all play a part in the development of melanoma. That said, there are still things you can do to significantly reduce your risk:

1. Never use tanning beds. The UV radiation poses a huge risk.
2. Wear sunscreen every day – even in Scotland. Choose one that protects against UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF rating of 30 or above.
3. Avoid exposure when the sun is at its strongest, between 11am and 3pm.
4. Cover up your skin with long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
5. Familiarise yourself with your moles, freckles and birthmarks and report any changes to your doctor immediately.

Learn the “ABCDEs” of melanoma

• Asymmetry: Is your mole an irregular shape?
• Border: Are the edges of your mole irregular or poorly defined?
• Colour: Is your mole uneven in colour, with varying shades of brown, black, grey, red or white?
• Diameter: Is your mole larger than 6mm?
• Evolving: Is your mole changing in size, shape or colour?

If the answer to any of the above is yes, it’s important that you visit your doctor immediately.

Book your appointment today

If you’re worried about a mole, speak to the medical professionals at YourGP. We can take a look at it and refer you on to a specialist for further analysis and testing if necessary. You can book an appointment using our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 381 0322 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.