Malta Records 42% surge in Skin Cancer Cases as Deaths Double Over Decade
Malta has seen a 42% rise in skin cancer cases in the first five months of 2025, with 819 diagnoses compared to 576 last year. This adds to a decade-long trend, with cases nearly doubling since 2010. Melanoma, the deadliest form, is also on the rise, with annual diagnoses now reaching up to 150. A recent study found worrying gaps in sun protection, even among skin cancer survivors, many do not use sunscreen or protective clothing, and some still expose themselves to peak sun. Experts are urging the government to remove VAT on sunscreen and improve public education. Prevention remains key, but inconsistent behaviour and enforcement, especially for outdoor workers, remain significant barriers. (Newsbook)
Over 300 road projects completed in 2024 – Minister
Over 300 road projects were completed in the past year as part of efforts to upgrade Malta’s road network, Transport Minister Chris Bonett said on Friday. Speaking in Valletta, with Infrastructure Malta CEO Steve Ellul, Bonett said 319 projects were completed thanks to over €50 million in government investment. Ellul stressed that roads are not just construction sites, but places where people live and work, and should be treated as such. He noted that 160 residential streets were upgraded to improve residents’ quality of life. Works on 52 other roads included resurfacing, while 83 roads saw upgrades to electrical infrastructure. (Times of Malta)
Four men granted bail in connection with cannabis resin theft from Ħal Safi AFM barracks
Four men charged over the theft of cannabis resin from the Armed Forces barracks in Ħal Safi were granted bail. Sean Attard, 30, Yousef Essesi, 33, and brothers Carlos, 23, and Cleaven Pace, 19, were arraigned over the February 26 robbery. They pleaded not guilty to charges of theft, forming a criminal group, and possessing cannabis intended for trafficking. Carlos Pace also faces separate charges of breaching a suspended sentence and bail conditions. The case involves 132kg of cannabis resin stolen from a stash seized at Malta Freeport in 2023. (Maltatoday)
