Despite the many new treatment options for melanoma that have and will save many lives, the incidence of melanoma continues to rise. This is a worldwide problem, especially among fairer complected individuals.
In a recent article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), it was estimated that by the year 2040 the global burden from melanoma will increase to 510 000 new cases and 96 000 deaths.

The take-home message is that melanoma remains a significant problem and the incidence is likely going to rise significantly over the next 20 years. That’s important for us and our children!

The main preventative strategy available is to limit ultraviolet light exposure and avoid any sunburns.

For early detection, monitor your own moles and see your dermatologist if any of them are changing or start to itch or bleed. Remember when caught early melanoma is a very curable disease!

Article Citation:

Melanoma in 2020 and Projections to 2040
Melina Arnold, PhD1; Deependra Singh, PhD1; Mathieu Laversanne, MSc1; et alJerome Vignat, MSc1; Salvatore Vaccarella, PhD1; Filip Meheus, PhD1; Anne E. Cust, PhD, MPH(Hons)2,3; Esther de Vries, PhD4; David C. Whiteman, MBBS(Hons), PhD5; Freddie Bray, PhD1
JAMA Dermatol. Published online March 30, 2022.