US Pharm. 2015;40(6):HS-42.
According to research presented by Roswell Park Cancer Institute at the American Society of Clinical Oncology 51st Annual Meeting in Chicago, the incidence of melanoma has increased by more than 250% among children, adolescents, and young adults since 1973.
The Roswell Park scientists also found that survival rates have increased, from 80% for the period 1973 to 1980 to 95% in 2011. Young adult women appear to be at particular risk for melanoma, possibly resulting from high-risk factors such as tanning behaviors.
“Given the epidemic rise of melanoma cases diagnosed among children, adolescents and young adults, it is imperative that new research initiatives are implemented, genetic and environmental risk factors identified, and effective prevention and screening strategies employed,” says Demytra Mitsis, MD, lead author of the study and a Fellow in the department of medical oncology at Roswell Park.
