FREE skin checks in Norfolk and Suffolk have revealed more than 200 cases of concern. Organisers of Skin Awareness Week said 244 skin conditions of concern were discovered during the six days of consultations by dermatology specialists in the two counties.

FREE skin checks in Norfolk and Suffolk have revealed more than 200 cases of concern.

Organisers of Skin Awareness Week said 244 skin conditions of concern were discovered during the six days of consultations by dermatology specialists in the two counties.

During the six day campaign, 692 people visited the skin check bus outside Corn Exchange in Ipswich and The Forum in Norwich.

More than a third of people presented potentially dangerous skin conditions including 15 cases of highly suspect malignant melanoma, 39 suspected non-melanoma skin cancers and 126 cases of Solar Keratosis.

Solar Keratosis is a skin condition which is caused by prolonged periods of over-exposure to the sun and appears in the form of crusty or scabby bumps which can range in size from a pinhead to about one centimetre across. It can also be an early indicator of a more serious skin cancer.

Dr Inma Mauri-Sole, associate specialist in dermatology, said: “We weren't surprised by the high number of cases of Solar Keratosis that we saw during the week.

“Not only does Norfolk and Suffolk boast an attractive coastline and waterways which encourage people to spend time outside, but there is a high percentage of outdoor workers, all of whom spend excessive amounts of time exposed to the sun.”

n. Were you one of the people who found a problem by going to the skin check bus? Contact The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324790 or email starnews@eveningstar.co.uk