Skin Cancer Incidence in Denmark (1978-1982)
Author Information
Author(s): A. Osterlind, K. Hou-Jensen, O. M0ller Jensen
Primary Institution: Danish Cancer Society, Danish Cancer Registry, Institute of Cancer Epidemiology
Hypothesis
The study investigates the incidence rates and distribution of cutaneous malignant melanoma compared to non-melanoma skin cancers in Denmark.
Conclusion
The incidence of malignant melanoma is increasing rapidly in Denmark, with distinct patterns based on sex and anatomic site.
Supporting Evidence
- 2,376 cases of malignant melanoma were reported during the study period.
- 60% of skin melanomas were diagnosed among women.
- The incidence of melanoma has increased 5- to 6-fold in the past 40 years.
- Melanoma incidence rates were highest for the back in males and the legs in females.
- Superficial spreading melanoma was the most common subtype, accounting for 72% of cases.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people in Denmark got skin cancer from 1978 to 1982 and found that melanoma cases are rising, especially in certain body areas and among women.
Methodology
The study analyzed cancer registry data and a case series of patients diagnosed with skin melanoma, focusing on incidence rates and anatomic site distribution.
Potential Biases
Potential under-reporting of skin cancer cases may not differentially affect males and females or age groups.
Limitations
The study may be affected by under-reporting of non-melanoma skin cancers and the inability to estimate true age-dependence due to cross-sectional data.
Participant Demographics
Patients aged 20 to 79 years from a geographically defined area in eastern Denmark.
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