A research letter published in JAMA Dermatology suggested that younger patients have got the message! The rate of melanoma over the 10-year study period decreased significantly among younger white adults (men age < 45 years and women age < 35 years). Its seems that the better behavior previously observed in this cohort with regards to better sun protection and avoidance of indoor tanning is starting to show results! On the downside, the melanoma rates increased significantly among older adults (men age > 54 years and women age > 44 years). This seems to validate the importance of the mantra dermatologist have been exposing to protect your skin and your children from unnecessary ultra-violet exposure.

Table. Melanoma Incidence in White Americans (2005 to 2014)

Age (y) Average Rate per 100,000 Average Change (%) Statistically Significant
15 – 24 3.2 –5.1 Yes
25 – 34 12.1 –1.7 Yes
35 – 44 20.5 –0.5 Yes
45 – 54 32.4 0.4 No
55 – 64 50.4 1.3 Yes
65 – 74 82 2.5 Yes
75 – 84 109.9 3.6 Yes
85 107 4.6 Yes

 

Article citation

Trends in Melanoma Incidence Among Non-Hispanic Whites in the United States, 2005 to 2014
Dawn M. Holman, MPH1; MaryBeth B. Freeman, MPH1; Meredith L. Shoemaker, MPH1
Research Letter January 31, 2018
JAMA Dermatol.Published online January 31, 2018.
doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.5541