Skin Cancer Study Shows Non-Melanoma Cases Causing More Deaths than Melanoma
A recent study conducted by European researchers has revealed that non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), previously considered to be less serious, are causing more deaths worldwide than melanoma. Melanoma has long been viewed as the leading cause of skin cancer deaths, but this study suggests a shift in the mortality trends.
The study utilized data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a division of the World Health Organization. The researchers noted a “high incidence” of skin cancer in fair-skinned and elderly populations from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and Italy.
“In 2020, NMSC accounted for 78 per cent of all skin cancer cases, resulting in over 63,700 deaths,” stated Professor Thierry Passeron, the lead author of the study and a dermatologist at Nice University Hospital in France. “In contrast, melanoma caused an estimated 57,000 fatalities in the same year. The significantly higher incidence of NMSC has, therefore, led to a more substantial overall impact.”
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in both the US and the UK, with approximately one in five individuals expected to develop it during their lifetime. NMSC refers to a more common group of skin cancers that slowly develop in the upper layers of the skin. On the other hand, melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body.
Professor Passeron and his team believe that NMSC may be grossly underreported, suggesting that its true impact may be even higher than currently estimated. Both NMSC and melanoma are primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays, which can come from the sun or tanning beds.
“We have to get the message out that not only melanoma can be fatal, but NMSC also,” emphasized Professor Passeron.
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) identifies several symptoms of NMSC, including the appearance of a lump or discolored patch on the skin that persists for a few weeks and slowly progress over several months or years. Cancerous lumps are often red and firm, sometimes developing into ulcers, while cancerous patches are usually flat and scaly.
As skin cancer continues to be a prevalent health concern, it is vital to raise awareness about the potential dangers of both melanoma and NMSC. By recognizing the symptoms and taking proactive measures to protect against harmful UV rays, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing skin cancer and potentially save lives.