BRITS have been urged to take more selfies as cases of deadly skin cancer rise.
Medics have warned sun seekers to be aware of the most common signs of the illness as many experience hot weather.
Around one in three people never look for tell-tale signals such as a new mole or a change in colour or shape of an existing one.
Research from skin tracking app Miiskin found that just two in five Brits would check for skin cancer if an NHS screening was offered to them.
The data comes as cases of the illness continue to rise in the UK with more than 2,500 skin cancer mortalities a year and 140,000 annual incidences of the disease.
Around 15,000 of these tumours are melanoma, the most dangerous form.
Figures shows that a quarter of Brits are concerned that tanning or sunburn in the past has damaged their skin, and many now regularly take skin ‘selfies’ to help spot signs of the disease developing.
One in five have taken photos of their moles to track for changes and one in 10 now do so at least once a month.
An estimated 300 million potentially life-saving selfies are taken every year by people in Britain to track changes to moles.
But experts found this is more popular for younger age groups, with 89 per cent of those aged 55 and over never having done it.
Dr Anton Alexandroff, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, said: “Skin cancer remains prevalent in the UK.
“It usually isn’t painful, so being aware of the visible warning signs and checking your skin is crucial, as most skin cancers can be cured if detected early.
“Look out for changes to the appearance of moles, such as the size, shape and colour, as well as new moles and marks – taking photos can help you notice changes over time.
“You should examine all of your body – including your nails, where melanoma can show as a dark line under the nail.”
He added that if you notice something concerning, then it’s key to get checked by your GP or a skin specialist.
Jon Friis, founder and CEO of skin tracking app Miiskin said: “Skin self-examination awareness still isn’t as widespread in the UK, as it is in countries like Australia, but the message is sinking in.
