The incidence of skin caner has increased worldwide, with U.S. incidence data mirrioring this trend. In the United States, the incidence rate for melanoma has increased approximately 4% per year since the early 1970s, with a 162% increase in male melanoma cases and 95% in women. It is unclear whether this increase is due to actual changes in prevalence or is partly a function of increased awareness, with subsequent diagnosis, improved reporting by tumor registries, or both. In 2003, 63,400 new cases of skin cancer and 12,000 deaths were projected, with 54,200 new cases of melanoma (skin) and 7600 deaths. Melanoma now ranks sixth in incidence among cancers in males and seventh in incidence among cancers in females. Approximately 800,000 nonmelanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year. The United States lags behind many other countries in the creative application of interventions to reduce the incidence of and mortality from melanoma and other skin cancers. Australia, which has the highest reported incidence of melanoma anywhere, has mounted successful population-based programs that have had dramatic effects.
Experts have not agreed about screening guidelines for skin cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends routine screening for individuals at high risk (eg. Those who have a family or personal history of skin cancer, clinical evidence or precursor lesions, and increased exposure to sunlight). The Task Force neither defines what is meant by routine screening nor reports on the specific recommendations for skin self-examination. The ACS recommends a cancer-related checkup, including a skin examination, every 3 years, and more frequently for persons at risk. The NCI also recognizes the benefits of skin cancer screening but offers no specific guidelines for such screening. Only the study demonstrates evidence regarding skin self-examination. Although it showed a decrease in mortality, there were limitations that preclude making recommendations on the basis of this study alone.
Experts have not agreed about screening guidelines for skin cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends routine screening for individuals at high risk (eg. Those who have a family or personal history of skin cancer, clinical evidence or precursor lesions, and increased exposure to sunlight). The Task Force neither defines what is meant by routine screening nor reports on the specific recommendations for skin self-examination. The ACS recommends a cancer-related checkup, including a skin examination, every 3 years, and more frequently for persons at risk. The NCI also recognizes the benefits of skin cancer screening but offers no specific guidelines for such screening. Only the study demonstrates evidence regarding skin self-examination. Although it showed a decrease in mortality, there were limitations that preclude making recommendations on the basis of this study alone.
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