Abstract
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and its incidence is increasing significantly among Canadians. In parallel with the rising incidence and morbidity, the financial burden caused by this disease will continue to increase dramatically for the government and for individuals alike. More concerted effort to raise awareness of melanoma in Canada is therefore needed.Risk factors-such as family history, childhood sunburn exposure, and age-play a significant role in an individual's likelihood to develop melanoma. Ultraviolet radiation exposure is the most modifiable variable in melanoma causation. It is therefore important for the general public, in particular the country's youth, to understand the consequences of lifestyle choices-especially tanning bed use and "sun worshipping." Many of these issues are not being addressed fully at either the national or the provincial level, with Canadian efforts trailing those of other nations facing similar challenges. Canada also has workforce issues, with an inadequate distribution and number of physicians who can detect and treat melanoma at an early curative stage. With proper education and public awareness, melanoma prevention can be an achievable goal in Canada.
Highlights
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, and its incidence is increasing significantly among Canadians
Skin provides a level of protection against injury, infection, and damage from ultraviolet sunlight, ambient sunlight remains the most significant source of uv radiation, which in turn increases the risk of a variety of cutaneous malignancies, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma
Melanoma accounts for only 4% of all skin cancer cases diagnosed, but it is the most dangerous form of cutaneous malignancy[1]
Summary
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada. skin provides a level of protection against injury, infection, and damage from ultraviolet (uv) sunlight, ambient sunlight remains the most significant source of uv radiation, which in turn increases the risk of a variety of cutaneous malignancies, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma accounts for only 4% of all skin cancer cases diagnosed, but it is the most dangerous form of cutaneous malignancy[1]. It is responsible for 80% of skin cancer deaths[1], and it is the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada[2]. By the year 2031, the financial burden of skin cancer in Canada will skyrocket to CA$922 million annually, with melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma respectively accounting for 75.5%, 13.3%, and 11.2% of the cost[1]
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