Medical Surveillance Monthly Report (MSMR). Volume 6, Number 5, May/June 2000
Abstract
Skin cancers, including nonmelanomas and melanomas, are the most common malignancies in the United States. Nonmelanoma skin cancers, predominantly basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, account for 95% of all skin cancer cases. The American Cancer Society (ACS) predicts that this year there will be 1 million new cases of nonmelanoma and 2,000 deaths attributable to it in the United States. Melanoma, the most lethal form of skin cancer, causes 80% of all skin cancer deaths. The ACS predicts that this year there will be 47,000 new cases of melanoma and 7,700 deaths. The risk of skin cancer is highest among whites, particularly fair-skinned individuals who are exposed to prolonged ultraviolet light (e.g. sunlight, x-rays). Intense exposure during childhood appears to be more strongly associated with the development of skin cancer than does exposure during adulthood. In general, the incidence of skin cancers and the attributable mortality are higher in the southern regions of the United States than in the northern ones. This study reports the incidence of outpatient visits for skin cancers in the US Armed Forces. Additionally, high-risk groups for these malignancies are identified.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA496957
Entities
People
- John Brundage
- Kimmie F. Kohlhase
- Mark V Rubertone
- Robert F. DeFraites
- Yvette E. Smith
Organizations
- Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center