Skin Cancer cases have increased by 40% in the Canary Islands over the last 5 years
Health authorities in the Canary Islands have issued a renewed warning about the growing threat of skin cancer, following a dramatic 40% rise in cases over the past five years. The surge has been linked to consistently high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the region, the highest in Spain according to AEMET.
Experts are calling for greater public awareness and sun safety, not just during the summer but all year round. If a warning system like the one used for volcanic activity were applied to UV radiation, the Islands would remain on red alert throughout the summer due to the intense solar exposure during the peak holiday period.
A Rising Health Concern
According to the latest data from Tenerife’s Primary Healthcare Service, nearly 10% of all cancers diagnosed on the Islands are skin cancers. In 2024 alone, 579 cases were reported on the island of Tenerife.
The most common types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, both of which are generally treatable. However, melanoma, although less frequent, is the most dangerous due to its ability to metastasise. Early diagnosis is key — when detected in its initial stages, melanoma has a survival rate of over 90%.
Early Detection and Prevention
Dr Sara Dorta Alom advises regular self-checks, at least twice a year, and consulting a dermatologist if you notice any new or changing skin lesions. Warning signs include:
- Dark, red or multi-coloured moles
- Rapid growth or changes in shape
- Persistent bleeding, scabbing, or painful spots
Experts also stress that sun damage is cumulative and that excessive exposure, especially during childhood or adolescence, significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
How to Stay Protected
The Canary Islands Government’s UV Radiation Prevention Plan emphasises the importance of sun safety not only at the beach or pool but throughout the year and across all elevations, including on cloudy days.
Top Recommendations:
- Avoid sun exposure between 11:00am and 5:00pm, especially in summer
- Use high-factor sun cream (SPF 50+) and reapply every two hours
- Wear protective clothing: hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and long sleeves
- Be extra cautious with children, older adults, and fair-skinned individuals
- Check expiry dates on sunscreen, many lose effectiveness from one summer to the next
Cultural Shift in Sun Habits
Fortunately, attitudes towards sun exposure have evolved. Gone are the days of applying tanning oils in search of a “quick tan”, a practice common in the 1980s and 90s that has proven costly for many in later years. Today, a growing emphasis on skin health and prevention is helping reverse this trend.
As we reach the height of summer, with high UV levels persisting across the Islands, experts say the message is clear: protect your skin now, your future health depends on it.
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