US burden of melanoma on the increase

March 28, 2017

Abstract

The incidence of and mortality from invasive melanoma in the United States has risen steadily for at least the past 2 decades.  Similar trends are being seen worldwide despite numerous efforts to enhance primary prevention and early detection, and these increasing rates are having an impact on the public health and economic burden of disease. In 2009, we reported on the status of US melanoma incidence at that time. The purpose of this study was to provide updated information on trends in melanoma incidence and mortality that will help to elucidate the current state of this cancer in the United States.

Study findings

According to the study lead author, as highlighted in a Medpage Today post, "The incidence of melanoma has continued to rise over the 7-year study interval. The mortality rate from melanoma is also rising, despite an increasing proportion of thin, early tumors being found." 

According to Medpage Today, the lead author attributes the rising incidence and rates of melanoma to the following:

  • An aging population with a high level of cumulative sun exposure
  • Poor sun protection techniques in early childhood for many of the baby boomer generation
  • Indoor tanning
  • The fact that the incidence of earlier lesions (thin tumors and melanoma in situ) is rising faster than that of thicker tumors.

“Nevertheless, the absolute number of thicker tumours is still materially increasing, which is having an impact on the mortality rate,”  according to the journal article.

Sources:

Glazer, AM, et al. Analysis of Trends in US Melanoma Incidence and Mortality.  Research Letter. JAMA Dermatol. 2017;153(2):225-226. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2016.4512
http://jamanetwork.com/journal...

Medpage Today
https://www.medpagetoday.com/r...


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