Skin cancer mortality rates
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Global Skin Cancer Mortality Rates
Skin cancer remains a significant health burden worldwide, with both incidence and mortality rates showing notable trends across different regions. Melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) are the primary types, each contributing differently to global mortality statistics. Melanoma is the 17th most common cancer globally, with approximately 58,667 deaths annually, while NMSC, though more common, causes about 69,416 deaths per year. The highest incidence rates are seen in Oceania, North America, and Europe, but mortality rates show less geographic variation, with non-melanoma skin cancer deaths now exceeding those from melanoma. There is a positive correlation between the Human Development Index (HDI) and melanoma mortality, but a negative correlation for non-melanoma skin cancer mortality, indicating that more developed countries see higher melanoma deaths but lower NMSC deaths relative to incidence 28.
Regional Trends in Skin Cancer Mortality
Asia and China
In China, the crude mortality rate (CMR) for skin cancer increased from 2013 to 2021, but the age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) and years of life lost (YLL) actually decreased slightly over the same period. Males, older adults, and rural residents experienced higher mortality rates. The highest age-specific mortality was observed in those over 85 years old, highlighting the increased risk with age 12. In Asia more broadly, while incidence rates are lower compared to Western countries, mortality rates can be relatively high, especially for non-melanoma skin cancers .
United States
In the US, both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer incidence and prevalence have increased since 1990, but mortality rates have remained relatively stable. In 2019, the age-standardized mortality rate for melanoma was 2.2 per 100,000, while for squamous cell carcinoma it was 0.8, and for basal cell carcinoma it was nearly zero. Males consistently have higher mortality rates than females, and melanoma mortality is higher in the northern US 39. Among organ transplant recipients, skin cancer-specific mortality is significantly higher, especially for older, white, and male patients, and those who received thoracic transplants .
Australia
Australia has one of the highest skin cancer mortality rates globally, particularly for melanoma. Between 1981 and 2011, the crude mortality rate for melanoma more than doubled among susceptible Australians. However, since 2011, the age-standardized mortality rate has decreased by nearly 20%, likely due to the introduction of effective therapies for metastatic melanoma, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. Non-melanoma skin cancer deaths are also recorded, but not separated by type 48.
Europe
In Germany, a skin cancer screening program led to a temporary 48% decline in melanoma mortality in one region, but rates returned to previous levels after several years. Nationally, melanoma mortality rates have not shown a sustained decrease, and trends are similar to those in neighboring countries . In Spain, skin cancer mortality rates vary by province and are influenced by ultraviolet radiation exposure, socioeconomic status, and other demographic factors .
Key Risk Factors for Skin Cancer Mortality
Across studies, several risk factors consistently emerge for higher skin cancer mortality: older age, male sex, white race, and certain medical conditions such as organ transplantation. Environmental factors like ultraviolet radiation exposure and socioeconomic status also play significant roles in regional mortality differences 123710.
Conclusion
Skin cancer mortality rates show considerable variation by region, cancer type, and demographic factors. While incidence is rising globally, mortality trends are more complex, with some regions seeing stabilization or declines due to improved treatments. Males, older adults, and those in rural or less developed areas are at higher risk. Continued research and targeted prevention strategies are essential to further reduce the burden of skin cancer mortality worldwide 1234810.
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