Skin cancer cases surge in the Canary Islands
Life in the Canary Islands revolves around sunshine, but this constant exposure is now being linked to a sharp rise in skin cancer cases across the region. With some of the highest ultraviolet radiation levels in Spain and Europe for much of the year, the Archipelago has become one of the areas most affected by skin cancer.
Cases have doubled since 2015, raising serious concern among health professionals and local authorities. The situation is particularly alarming in the south of Tenerife, where cases increased by around 208% between 2014 and 2022.
Most Common Cancer—But Highly Treatable
The issue was highlighted during the III Island Skin Cancer Campaign led by the Cabildo de Tenerife, where experts stressed the scale of the problem.
According to Ricardo Fernández de Misa, president of the Academia Nacional de Dermatología y Venereología, skin cancer is “the most common cancer in humans” when all types are considered.
However, the most dangerous form, melanoma, accounts for just 4% of cases. The majority are less aggressive types, including basal cell carcinoma (70%) and squamous cell carcinoma (20%). Encouragingly, early detection leads to a cure rate of around 95%.
Low Sun Protection Habits Raise Concern
Despite the well-known risks, sun safety habits remain low. Data from the Colegio Oficial de Farmacéuticos suggests that only 22% of people regularly apply sunscreen.
Health experts warn that the main risk factor in the Canary Islands is prolonged sun exposure from an early age, not only during leisure time but also through outdoor work.
“As essential as the sun is for life, excessive exposure has consequences,” said Natalia Rodríguez, president of the Colegio de Enfermería de Santa Cruz de Tenerife. “In the Canary Islands, protecting your skin is not an option, it is a necessity.”
Island-Wide Prevention Campaign Launched
In response, the Cabildo has launched a large-scale awareness and prevention campaign that will visit all 31 municipalities across Tenerife from 9th April to 5th November.
Mobile units staffed by pharmacists, nurses, dermatologists and primary care doctors will offer free skin checks and early diagnosis services.
Island president Rosa Dávila emphasised the importance of such initiatives: “They allow us to improve education and detect cases early, because skin cancer can be prevented.”
Education councillor Juan Manuel Acosta added that awareness remains the most powerful tool in reducing cases.
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