Skin cancer is a growing problem, having claimed the lives of six men and two women in 2009, according to Consultant Dermatologist Lawrence Scerri.

He said that while there some 21 new cases of melanoma per year between 1993 and 2000, this rose to 38.7 cases per year between 2001 and 2008.

Cutaneous melanoma, as the cancer is called, is a malignant tumour from melanocyte cells in the skin.

This is not perilous at the beginning, and if caught early, can be removed before it has spread, dermatologist Michael Boffa pointed out at a press conference.

A malignant mole can be identified from a benign mole through ABCDE, he said.

Cancerous lesions tend to be Asymmetrical, with irregular Borders, have varied Colour, larger than 6mm in Diameter and Evolve in size, shape, colour, have spontaneous irritation, inflammation or bleeding within a short period of time.

Dr Boffa urged people to check out moles when in doubt about whether they were cancerous.

On May 16, the Dermatology Department will be offering a screening by appointment only for persons with suspicious moles and lesions.

The doctor urged people to avoid the midday sun, wear suitable clothing, use sunscreen, and remember that certain circumstances may affect UV transmission.