Elderly ‘more likely to need skin cancer treatment’

The likelihood of developing skin cancer increases with age, meaning that elderly people may be more likely to need skin cancer treatment, an expert has said.

According to Nina Goad, a spokeswoman for the British Association of Dermatologists, the skin becomes drier and more fragile as it ages, meaning that it is more prone to disease.

“Sun related disorders, including skin cancer, are also more common as we age, due to the cumulative effects of UV exposure,” she explained.

“Keeping an eye out for changes to the skin, such as wounds that won’t heal or changes to a mole, is vital and these need to be reported to a GP,” she advised.

Ms Goad revealed that the majority of elderly people suffer from skin disorders such as eczema and dermatitis.

She recommended moisturising regularly “as it can help protect the skin’s barrier function and prevent dry skin disorders”.