‘Ginger gene’ link to skin cancer risk, study shows

An inherited “ginger gene” associated with red hair, pale skin, and freckles is directly linked to the genetic risk of developing skin cancer, new evidence has shown for the first time.

The MC1R gene variant can boost the risk of skin cancer by the equivalent of 21 extra years of sun exposure, say scientists.

Red-haired people such as Prince Harry, and DJ and broadcaster Chris Evans have two copies of the variant, which causes a strong tendency to burn in the sun.