2023-10-17 16:21:15
Deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) have surpassed deaths from melanoma, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at Nice University Hospital in France. The study utilized patient data collected by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and revealed that NMSC caused 63,700 deaths globally in 2020, compared to 57,000 deaths from melanoma.
Previously, NMSC was considered less dangerous and often excluded from national cancer registry reports. However, the study demonstrates that while NMSC is rarely fatal, it can lead to a significant number of deaths if a large enough population develops the disease. The findings challenge conventional wisdom about the threat posed by NMSC.
Both melanoma and NMSC are linked to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Over the past few decades, the incidence of both types of skin cancer has increased as people’s holiday destinations and attitudes towards tanning have changed. Although most cases occur in white individuals, people with dark skin can also develop skin cancer, which often goes undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness among patients and dermatologists.
While UV radiation is a risk factor for both melanoma and NMSC, NMSC is more associated with chronic exposure. Tumors commonly arise on the face and head in individuals with NMSC, whereas severe sunburn is closely linked to melanoma, particularly on the torso.
There are two main types of NMSC: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Both kinds originate from a type of skin cell called keratinocyte. Mutations caused by exposure to UV radiation can lead to the uncontrollable division of keratinocytes, resulting in tumor formation. Melanoma, on the other hand, is caused by cancer-promoting mutations in a different type of skin cell called melanocyte.
Most deaths from skin cancer occur due to the spread of cells from the original tumor to distant sites in the body. Melanoma cells are more efficient at metastasis than NMSCs, making them more likely to form secondary tumors in different organs.
The higher number of deaths from NMSC compared to melanoma is partially due to the difficulties in accurately collecting data on NMSC cases. Official statistics suggest 1.2 million cases of NMSC per year, compared to 325,000 cases of melanoma, but these figures are likely underestimations due to inconsistencies in data collection and reporting between countries.
The study also highlighted geographic disparities in NMSC survival rates. Access to early diagnosis and treatment plays a significant role in determining outcomes, with the report suggesting that the perception of NMSC as relatively harmless may contribute to a delay in seeking medical attention.
On a positive note, the rise in NMSC deaths may also be attributed to the advancements in melanoma treatments. Targeted therapies for melanoma have shown significant progress in saving lives. However, prevention remains crucial, and efforts must be made to ensure that sun protection messages reach everyone at risk.
In conclusion, the study’s findings emphasize the importance of recognizing the threat posed by non-melanoma skin cancer. Despite its rarity for individual cases, the widespread occurrence of NMSC can lead to significant mortality rates. Early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention through sun protection measures are vital in reducing deaths from both NMSC and melanoma.]
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