Skin cancer warning
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Doctors are diagnosing more people with melanoma.
Why it matters: Although melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers, it's responsible for the large majority of skin cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
By the numbers: Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U.S.
- There's been a particular increase in the number of people diagnosed with skin cancer over age 50, says Shanthi Sivendran, ACS senior vice president of cancer care support.
- ACS estimates that about 100,640 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in 2024.
Zoom in: Washington's average rate of skin cancer diagnosis per 100,000 people each year is 25.5, outpacing the national average of 22.5, according to data from the National Cancer Institute.
- People may falsely assume they don't need to take precautions in cloudy weather, Katie Treend of the state Department of Health has said.
- Up to 80% of skin-damaging UV rays can still make it through clouds.
What they're saying: "People who get periodically sunburnt frequently tend to have a higher risk of developing melanoma," says Henry Lim, dermatologist at Henry Ford Health in Detroit and former president of American Academy of Dermatology.
Yes, but: More effective skin cancer detection and the fact that many Americans are living longer could be reasons for the uptick in melanoma diagnoses.
Using sunscreen is helpful for preventing skin cancer, as well as wrinkles and skin discoloration. Also, stay in the shade and wear hats.