Warning signs of a devastating disease have been echoed by Sarah Goldup's harrowing experience with malignant melanoma. The 42-year-old mother-of-two from Surrey was diagnosed at the age of 38 after neglecting her parents' initial concerns about a mark on her chin, which she had dismissed as a birthmark.
Ms Goldup believes that severe sunburn sustained during a teenage holiday to Tenerife, where she used tanning oil instead of sunscreen, contributed significantly to her diagnosis. At the time, she disregarded her parents' advice to have the mark checked but eventually sought medical attention when it began to change shape and colour.
Ms Goldup underwent two surgeries, one from her chin and another on her chest, after a second melanoma was discovered. Following a recurrence, further surgery was required to remove 35 lymph nodes, with 25 found to be cancerous – an indication that her cancer had progressed to Stage 3.
Currently, Ms Goldup is undergoing a three-month course of combination immunotherapy drugs, followed by monthly maintenance treatment until April 2027. She stresses that she never used sunbeds but acknowledges the cultural pressure to seek a deep tan during her youth. Her experience highlights the alarming reality that sun damage can manifest years – or even decades – after initial exposure.
The NHS advises individuals to be vigilant about changes to their skin, and it's crucial to consult a GP promptly for any suspicious marks. Malignant melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, with early detection significantly improving outcomes. Key warning signs include moles or marks that change in size, shape, colour, or develop an uneven border, as well as those that itch, bleed, or become crusty.
Ms Goldup is now supporting a campaign coordinated by Cancer Research UK to raise awareness about sun safety among the public. She emphasizes her commitment to preventative measures, including a healthy diet, daily exercise, covering up in the sun, and using factor 50 sunscreen every day – even during winter months. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of sun damage and the importance of protecting skin from UV rays.
According to Cancer Research UK, there are approximately 16,700 new melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK each year – an average of 46 cases every day. Rates have increased significantly over the last decade, with UV radiation being the primary preventable cause. It's essential for individuals, particularly children and those with fair skin or many moles, to take sun protection seriously.