Skin Cancer Today: Rising Rates, Prevention and Treatment Advances

In an age when health-related information is easily accessible, it’s surprising to discover that rates of skin cancer are rising. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that in 2024 new melanoma diagnoses will increase by 7.3%. More common varieties are climbing as well. “The incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer—both basal-cell carcinoma and squamous-cell carcinoma—has also increased,” Dr. MaryBeth Parisi, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Middletown, New York, recently told Women’s Health.

With all we know about how to prevent skin cancer, why are the numbers going up?

Consider the source

The majority of melanoma cases are attributable to UV exposure, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). The United States Department of Health and Human Services and the World Health Organization’s International Agency of Research on Cancer has even declared UV radiation from the sun and artificial sources, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, to be a known carcinogen.

“Despite increased awareness of the dangers of indoor tanning, some continue to engage, as there is still the perception that a tan makes us look more attractive and healthier,” Dr. Parisi says. She points to social media as a way the dangerous perspective that a tan equates to beauty is being spread to younger generations.

Another misleading social media trend is happening on TikTok, where creators are advising viewers to make their own sunscreen or avoid using it altogether so they can absorb more vitamin D. Dr. Parisi hits back, saying, “In fact, the skin receptors that absorb vitamin D are maxed out after about 5 to 10 minutes of exposure, and they’re activated even if you’re wearing sunscreen. Additionally, you can get adequate vitamin D from your diet and a supplement if need be.”

Mind the gap

Rates of melanoma in people under 50 are higher in women than men, according to the AAD. And women younger than 30 are six times more likely to develop melanoma if they tan indoors.

A theory for why women are being diagnosed more than men comes down to their more proactive approach to health. “Women may be more likely to seek medical or cosmetic attention for skin concerns, leading to earlier detection of skin cancers,” Dr. Parisi said.

“Greater awareness of skin cancer and the importance of early detection may [also] lead to more women undergoing screenings and being diagnosed with skin cancers that might have gone unnoticed in the past,” she adds.

Things are looking up

Even with the increase in diagnoses, there’s hopeful news. Early detection still saves lives. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are highly curable if detected early and treated properly, according to the AAD, and the five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes is 94%.

In addition, a slew of advancements in detection and treatment, such as gene-editing, Mohs micrographic surgery and even Artificial Intelligence (AI), means a better chance of beating skin cancer. “Researchers are exploring the use of AI algorithms to analyze images of skin lesions and assist in the early detection of melanoma and other types of skin cancers,” says Dr. Parisi. “The hope is that these AI-powered tools will improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce unnecessary biopsies and serve as a tool to reach more patients.”

Best practices

Preventing UV rays from reaching your skin is the most effective way to reduce your risk of skin cancer:

  • Stay out of indoor tanning beds
  • Seek shade when outdoors
  • Wear protective clothing with a UPF rating
  • Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after sweating or swimming

When it comes to the younger set, offer extra protection during childhood and adolescence as severe sunburn during that time may increase one’s risk of melanoma.

Finally, remain vigilant about an annual skin check with your dermatology provider. Also, if you notice any skin changes, new moles or abnormalities in existing moles, see your provider immediately.

Call (844) DERM-DOC to schedule an appointment today or book your appointment online with one of our dermatology providers.

About Schweiger Dermatology Group

Founded by Dr. Eric Schweiger in 2010, Schweiger Dermatology Group began as a single office in Midtown Manhattan with a mission to deliver high-quality dermatologic care without long waits. As demand grew, so did the practice. Today we have over 120 locations across 8 states with more than 400 of the nation's leading providers and were ranked as the number one practice nationally in cosmetic and reconstructive care by Castle Connolly. In 2023, we broadened our expertise by integrating allergy care into our services. We remain committed to offering exceptional medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology as well as comprehensive allergy services, ensuring patients receive expert care in a modern, state-of-the art environment.

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