Risk Factors for Melanoma Among Individuals Living in Atlantic Canada
Source: The Asco Post, September 2023
Investigators in Canada may have uncovered the factors contributing to the higher risk of melanoma among individuals living in Atlantic regions, according to a recent study published by Lagacé et al in Cancers. These findings may provide insights into effective strategies for skin cancer prevention.
Background
The incidence of melanoma has been rising globally. Although researchers have reported higher-than-average incidence rates of melanoma in some Atlantic regions, neighboring regions have demonstrated more average incidence rates of melanoma.
Study Methods and Results
In this study, the investigators compared the ultraviolet radiation exposure and protective behaviors of 7,861 participants based on their gender, income, and highest educational attainment. They found that individuals with a higher income had an increased risk of melanoma—especially if they had more lifetime sun burns, used tanning beds, and had tanned skin. Similarly, individuals whose highest educational attainment was at the university level had greater rates of recreational sun exposure but were less likely to use tanning beds.