Men and Melanoma

Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, affects both men and women. However, research shows that men are disproportionately affected by melanoma, with higher incidence rates and lower survival rates compared to women. The American Academy of Dermatology has highlighted this disparity and encourages men to take proactive steps to protect their skin and receive regular screenings for early detection.

One reason for the higher incidence of melanoma in men is their increased exposure to UV radiation, which is a primary risk factor for the development of skin cancer. Men are more likely to work outdoors or engage in outdoor recreational activities without proper sun protection. They are also less likely to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, compared to women. This increased exposure to UV radiation can lead to more skin damage and a higher risk of developing melanoma.

Another factor contributing to the higher incidence of melanoma in men is the fact that they are less likely to seek medical attention for suspicious moles or other skin lesions. A study published in JAMA Dermatology found that men were more likely than women to delay seeking medical attention for melanoma, leading to later diagnoses and poorer outcomes. This delay may be due to a lack of awareness about the signs of melanoma or a belief that skin cancer is not a serious concern for men.

In addition to a higher incidence of melanoma, men also have lower survival rates compared to women. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that men had a 60% higher risk of dying from melanoma compared to women, even after adjusting for other factors such as age and stage of the cancer. The reasons for this disparity are not fully understood, but may be related to differences in tumor biology, as well as a lower likelihood of men receiving appropriate treatment.

To address this disparity and improve outcomes for men with melanoma, the American Academy of Dermatology encourages men to take proactive steps to protect their skin and receive regular screenings for early detection. This includes:

Wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen: Men should wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, when spending time outdoors. They should also use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Performing regular self-exams: Men should perform regular self-exams to detect any changes in their skin that may be indicative of melanoma. This includes looking for any new moles or freckles, changes in the color or shape of existing moles, or any areas of skin that are painful, itchy, or bleeding.

Receiving regular skin cancer screenings: Men should receive regular skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist, particularly if they have a history of sun exposure or a family history of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that individuals receive a full-body skin exam every year, or more frequently if they have a history of skin cancer.
Raising awareness: Men can help raise awareness about the risks of melanoma and the importance of sun protection by sharing information with friends and family members, particularly those who may be at higher risk, such as those who work outdoors or have a family history of skin cancer.

In addition to these proactive steps, men should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of melanoma and seek medical attention if they notice any changes in their skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that individuals be aware of the ABCDEs of melanoma:

Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half in size or shape.
Border: The edges of the mole are ragged, blurred, or irregular.
Color: The color of the mole is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.

Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters, or about the size of a pencil eraser.
Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color, or is exhibiting other symptoms such as itching or bleeding.
If an individual notices any of these signs, they should seek medical attention immediately.

Overall, the higher incidence and lower survival rates of melanoma in men are a cause for concern. However, with proactive measures such as regular sun protection, self-exams, and skin cancer screenings, men can reduce their risk of developing melanoma and improve outcomes if they do develop the disease. By raising awareness about the risks of melanoma and encouraging early detection, we can work to reduce the impact of this deadly form of skin cancer on men and the broader population.