There are some numbers worth pausing for.
And this is one of them: More than 32,000 Danes have been treated for skin cancer by a dermatologist in Denmark in a single year. New figures from the Danish Skin Cancer Database show this.
32,000 (!)
That is a very high figure – and even more worrying is that the number continues to rise year after year.
In fact, the incidence of skin cancer has increased markedly over recent decades. In just ten years the number has grown dramatically, and the trend is putting increasing pressure on dermatologists, hospitals and the rest of the healthcare system (source).
But amid the serious figures there is also an important point:
A large share of skin cancer can be prevented.
And it starts with something as simple — and as important — as good sun protection.
Skin cancer has become one of the most common cancers in Denmark
Today, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Denmark.
There are several different types, but the most common are:
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Basal cell carcinoma (basal cell carcinoma)
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Squamous cell carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma)
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Melanoma (malignant melanoma)
Fortunately, most cases are detected early and can be treated effectively. Danish data actually show that the vast majority of patients are cancer-free after treatment.
But that does not change the fact that the number of cases continues to grow – and that prevention therefore plays a crucial role.
Why is skin cancer increasing in Denmark?
There are several explanations for the trend.
An important part of the explanation lies in our sun habits (source). For many years tanned skin was idealised, and many Danes have been exposed to large amounts of sun throughout their lives — both on holidays and in tanning salons.
The skin has a long memory.
Sun damage can appear many years before it develops into skin cancer.
Therefore we now see the consequences of the sun culture that was particularly widespread in the 1970s, 80s and 90s.
At the same time we live longer, and the risk of skin cancer naturally increases with age.
But although much of the explanation lies in the past, that does not mean prevention is irrelevant. On the contrary.
Sun protection makes a difference
Although the numbers are still high, there is fortunately broad agreement among health authorities and organisations like the Danish Cancer Society on one thing:
The most important prevention against skin cancer is to protect the skin from the sun's UV rays.
This applies to both children and adults — and throughout life.
The official Danish sun recommendations are:
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Seek shade when the sun is strong (typically between 12 and 15)
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Wear a sun hat and clothing that covers the skin
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Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
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Avoid tanning beds
Sunscreen cannot stand alone, but it is an important supplement to the other advice.
Especially if you stay in the sun for longer periods.
Why is at least factor 30 recommended?
The sun's UV rays are the main cause of skin cancer.
When the skin is exposed to UV radiation without sufficient protection, damage can occur in the skin's cells. Over time these damages can develop into cancer.
That is why both the Danish Health Authority and the Danish Cancer Society recommend always using sunscreen with at least factor 30.
A sunscreen with factor 30 filters out a large part of the UV rays and helps protect the skin from the damage that can occur with prolonged sun exposure.
But it requires that the sunscreen is used correctly.
This means, among other things:
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That you apply generously
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That you reapply during the day
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And that you supplement with shade and clothing
So sunscreen is not an invitation to stay longer in the sun — but a way to protect the skin better when you are there.
Skin cancer affects many — but can often be detected early
Although the rising numbers are serious, there is also good news.
Most forms of skin cancer are now detected early, and treatment is in many cases both effective and relatively simple.
This is partly due to increased awareness of skin changes, and that many Danes have become better at reacting if something on the skin changes.
It's always a good idea to keep an eye on your skin — and react if you notice:
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new moles
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sores that won't heal
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spots that change color or size
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skin changes that itch, bleed or grow
If in doubt, you should always contact your doctor.
A loving reminder for your skin
Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Denmark.
But it is also one of the diseases where prevention can actually make a big difference.
Therefore sun protection is not only something we should think about abroad or on the hottest summer days.
It is a small, daily care for the skin. For you — and for your children.
A hat.
A shade break.
And a good sunscreen with at least factor 30.
Not because we should be afraid of the sun — but because our skin should last a lifetime.
And it deserves that we take good care of it