Skin Cancer - Melanoma

Melanoma is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The lifetime risk for dying of melanoma is 0.36% in white men and 0.21% in white women (3). Between 1973 and 1995, the age-adjusted incidence of melanoma increased more than 100%, from 5.7 per 100,000 people to 13.3 per 100,000 people.

The increase in annual incidence rates is likely due to several factors, including increased sun exposure and possibly earlier detection of melanoma. Although primary prevention efforts have focused on young people, the elderly (especially elderly men) bear a disproportionate burden of morbidity and mortality from melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer.

A February, 2007 study from the St. Louis University School of Medicine, presented to the American Academy of Dermatology, reports that people who experience long-term (cumulative) exposure to the sun through the side windows of cars are more likely to develop skin cancer on that side of their body.

Lawsuit: Sunscreen users burned by makers' claims

A class-action lawsuit was filed today against makers of suntan lotions. The suit alleges that most of the products don't provide as much protection as advertised. Dan Grech reports from Market Place.

January 16, 2006
By Michael Gormley Associated Press