Sarah Ferguson: Duchess of York diagnosed with skin cancer

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. The main cause is ultraviolet light, which comes from the sun or sunbeds. Factors such as age, pale skin, a large number of moles, and a family history of skin cancer can increase an individual’s chances of developing melanoma. Signs to look out for include a new mole, a change in an existing mole, large moles, and even moles that are either an uneven shape or a mixture of colours. The NHS says people who notice new moles, changes to existing moles, moles that are painful, itchy, or bleeding are encouraged to contact their GP. Individuals can lower their chances of developing melanoma by covering arms and legs when exposed to the sun and wearing sunscreen.