Television and radio presenter Adrian Chiles has publicly shared his recent diagnosis with a form of skin cancer, prompting a vital reminder from the NHS about the warning signs everyone should know.
The 58-year-old broadcaster wrote in his Guardian column that a "thing" on his shoulder was identified by doctors as squamous cell carcinoma. This is a common type of non-melanoma skin cancer.
Chiles explained that the growth has been removed and confirmed it "won't spread". He described the situation as "So not nothing, but not serious. Needs keeping an eye on." While non-melanoma skin cancers are generally less aggressive than melanoma and often remain localised, treatment is essential as they can be fatal if left untreated.
What Are the Main Signs of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer?
According to the NHS, the primary indicator of non-melanoma skin cancer is the appearance of a new, abnormal growth or patch on the skin. These most frequently develop on areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Common sites include:
- The head, face, and ears
- The neck and shoulders
- The back
- The hands
- The lower legs
The appearance can vary significantly. Some growths may be raised, smooth, and have a clear edge, while others might be rough, crusty, or bumpy. They can also present as flat, discoloured patches.
These patches or growths can be a range of colours, including red, brown, or purple. On brown or black skin, they may simply appear darker. They can sometimes feel itchy, scaly, or bleed.
The health service advises that you should consult your GP if you notice a growth that is getting larger or changing in texture or colour, or if you have a sore or patch of skin that is itchy, bleeding, crusting, or scabbing for more than four weeks.
Understanding the More Dangerous Melanoma
A less common but more serious type is melanoma skin cancer, which has a higher potential to spread to other parts of the body.
The key symptom of melanoma is a new mole appearing or an existing mole changing. The NHS recommends using the ABCDE checklist as a guide:
- Asymmetry – the two halves of the mole do not match.
- Border – edges are irregular, blurred, or jagged.
- Colour – an uneven mix of shades like brown, black, pink, or white.
- Diameter – typically larger than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving – the mole changes in size, shape, or colour over time.
You must see a GP if a mole is painful, itchy, inflamed, bleeding, or crusty, or if you notice a new, unusual mark on your skin that hasn't gone away after a few weeks. A dark area under a nail not caused by an injury also warrants medical attention.
Early Detection Is Crucial for Treatment
The central message from Adrian Chiles' experience and the NHS guidance is the critical importance of early detection. Finding skin cancer early, whether non-melanoma or melanoma, makes it much easier to treat successfully.
Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or sunbeds is the leading cause of non-melanoma skin cancer. Protecting your skin with high-SPF sunscreen, covering up, and seeking shade during peak sun hours are key preventative measures.
Chiles' decision to speak out serves as a timely public health reminder. Regularly checking your own skin and being aware of changes can lead to early diagnosis and simpler, more effective treatment.
