Iowa's melanoma rates are higher than national average
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Iowa's estimated rate of new melanoma cases remains well above the national average and is the fifth highest in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
Why it matters: Melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, but is more likely to grow and spread.
By the numbers: There's an average of 30 new cases in the state per year, in comparison to 23 cases nationally.
Zoom in: Melanoma cases are higher in northern Iowa, according to zip code analysis by the Iowa Cancer Registry.
- Health experts have pointed to Iowa's agricultural industry as a potential cause for the higher rates, due to more time spent outside, the Gazette reports.
Plus: Melanoma is also 20 times more common in white than Black populations.
- Iowa is about 62% white, higher than the U.S. average, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Yes, but: Sun exposure isn't the only possible reason for the uptick in melanoma diagnoses.
- Other factors: More effective skin cancer detection and the fact that many Americans are living longer, says Shanthi Sivendran, ACS senior vice president of cancer care support.
Go deeper: How to pick a "safe" sunscreen