New skin cancer charity

Published on 12/10/2012 00:00

A NEW skin cancer charity has been launched, backed by more than 100 leading scientists, doctors and nurses.

Melanoma Focus will fund research and provide support for those suffering from the most dangerous form of skin cancer.

Dr Jerry Marsden, consultant dermatologist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham and chairman of the new charity, said: “Melanoma in the UK is a growing problem and new research is vital in combating the increasing numbers of deaths from this disease.

“Melanoma Focus will build on a wealth of knowledge from experts in skin cancer to help establish the UK as a leader in the development of new treatments and high-quality care.”

Each year, around 12,800 people are diagnosed with melanoma and 2,200 die from the disease.

Incident rates for melanoma are rising faster than for any other cancer.