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. 2013;8(6):707-716.
doi: 10.1586/17469872.2013.844465.

The epidemiology of melanoma in young adults

Ana I Velazquez  1 , Jerry D Brewer  2
Affiliations

The epidemiology of melanoma in young adults

Ana I Velazquez et al. Expert Rev Dermatol. 2013.

Abstract

The incidence of melanoma is rising steadily around the world, with varying mortality trends among different populations. Particularly, incidence rates among young adults, below age 40 years, have increased dramatically in the past decades. In young adults, the gender predominance is switched, with the highest incidence occurring in young women. Multiple risk factors are associated with higher risk of developing melanoma. Intermittent sunlight exposure and use of tanning beds early in life increase significantly the risk of melanoma. The prevalence of tanning bed use among young women and adolescents is increasing continuously. This trend may be associated with the increase in melanoma incidence among young women. Efforts to implement new active interventions that will increase public awareness of melanoma and the risks of tanning bed use are crucial; regulations on tanning bed use especially among those underage should be implemented.

Keywords: epidemiology; incidence; melanoma; tanning; tanning beds; young adults.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.. Age-specific melanoma incidence rates in the USA.
Age-specific melanoma incidence rates from 18 SEER areas in 2006–2010. Rates are per 100,000 and are age-adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population. Data taken from [202].
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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