Rising cancer incidents observed in Bavaria region - Rising incidences of skin cancer reported in Bavaria
Rising Skin Cancer Cases in Bavaria
Cases of skin cancer, particularly the dangerous black and white varieties, are on the rise in Bavaria. According to the health insurer Barmer, the number of diagnoses for black skin cancer, or malignant melanoma, has more than doubled between 2005 and 2023, while white skin cancer diagnoses have also significantly increased.
Munich-based Barmer's regional manager, Alfred Kindshofer, attributes this rise to excessive sun exposure during youth, as holidays in the sun became popular in the mid-1960s. During this time, children were often exposed to strong sunlight without adequate protection. The popularity of solariums in the 1980s also played a part, with the late effects of tanning without UV protection becoming apparent today. Kindshofer expects the number of cases to continue rising.
Men are more frequently affected by both black and white skin cancers, with 71,150 diagnoses of black skin cancer in 2023 (compared to 29,250 in 2005) and around 295,000 diagnoses of white skin cancer (compared to 112,200 in 2005). Women, while slightly more affected by black skin cancer, are more often diagnosed with the more common white skin cancer.
Both black and white skin cancers are the most common types of skin cancer in Germany. While white skin cancer grows slowly and is usually treatable, black skin cancer is more aggressive. Early detection is crucial for improving the chances of recovery. Experts recommend regular self-exams in addition to regular check-ups with a dermatologist.
The risk of skin cancer increases with age, with the highest diagnosis rates in Bavaria for both types of skin cancer found in the 80-89 age group. However, Kindshofer suggests that the risk may decrease for those under 40, due to more careful sun protection behaviors and regular skin cancer screenings.
Kindshofer emphasized that prevention is key in reducing the risk of skin cancer. He advises using high SPF sunscreen, wearing long-sleeved clothing, using sun hats, and avoiding direct sunlight.
Barmer's report is based on the outpatient and inpatient treatment data of its 1.1 million insured in Bavaria, making its findings representative of the state.
- To combat the rising cases of skin cancer in Bavaria, it might be beneficial to implement community policies that promote health and wellness, including proper sun protection measures such as the use of high SPF sunscreen, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and using sun hats.
- In light of the increased diagnoses of skin cancer, particularly malignant melanoma, it would be prudent to incorporate vocational training in medical-conditions, including dermatology and mental-health, to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to effectively diagnose and treat skin cancer.
- Given the significant increase in skin cancer diagnoses, especially among men, it might be worthwhile to initiate awareness campaigns that educate the public about the risks associated with skin cancer, the importance of regular self-exams, and seeking medical attention when necessary, as part of a comprehensive approach to health-and-wellness and mental-health care.
