Melanoma: Statistics

What are statistics?

Some people use numbers called statistics to figure out their chances of getting cancer. Or they use them to try to figure out their chance of being cured. Because no 2 people are alike, statistics can’t be used to predict what will happen to 1 person. The statistics below describe large groups of people. They do not take into account a person's own risk factors, such as family history, behaviors, or cancer screenings. If you have questions, talk with your healthcare provider.

What are the statistics for melanoma?

Here are some statistics about melanoma and skin cancer:

• Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer.

• Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common types of skin cancer.

• Melanoma is a less common type of skin cancer.

• In 2018, about 91,270 people in the U.S. will get melanoma.

• Rates of melanoma have been increasing for at least 30 years.

• Before age 50, melanoma is more common in women than in men. But for men over the age 50, the risk is higher.

• Melanoma accounts for about 1% of all skin cancers, but it causes most skin cancer deaths. About 9,320 people will die from melanoma this year.

Source:  American Cancer Society (ACS)