In 2024, there will be a significant increase in melanoma diagnoses, with an estimated growth of 30%. A figure that, according to Paolo Ascierto, president of the Melanoma Foundation and director of the Melanoma Oncology, Oncologic Immunotherapy and Innovative Therapies Unit at the Pascale Institute in Naples, is linked to both unhealthy behaviors and greater adherence to screening programs.
“This increase is probably attributable to incorrect lifestyles, such as exposure to the sun without adequate protection or the use of tanning beds, despite calls for prevention. However, it should be emphasized that approximately 80% of diagnoses concern cases identified in the early stages, thanks to increasingly widespread checks”, Ascierto explained to Adnkronos Salute.
The dermatologist emphasizes the importance of prevention, highlighting how many people continue to underestimate the risks of sunburn and other practices harmful to the skin. However, the increase in diagnoses could also represent a positive sign: "The greater sensitivity of the population towards regular check-ups is essential to detect melanoma in time and improve the chances of treatment", concludes Ascierto.
Article published on 8 January 2025 - 17:52
