Melanoma epidemiology

Hematol Oncol Clin North Am. 2009 Jun;23(3):383-95, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.hoc.2009.03.010.

Abstract

Melanoma is a complex, heterogeneous cancer that continues to increase in incidence. Multiple studies have consistently identified major host and environmental risk factors for melanoma. Nevi, particularly dysplastic nevi, confer much higher risks than most pigmentary characteristics. Ultraviolet radiation exposure is the predominant environmental risk factor for melanoma. Recently, both rare high risk susceptibility genes and common polymorphic genes contributing to melanoma risk have been identified.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Comorbidity
  • Female
  • Genes, Neoplasm
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Global Health
  • Hair Color
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Male
  • Melanoma / epidemiology*
  • Melanoma / etiology
  • Melanoma / genetics
  • Melanosis / epidemiology
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / epidemiology
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / genetics
  • Nevus / epidemiology
  • Racial Groups
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / genetics
  • Skin Pigmentation
  • Sunlight / adverse effects
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Young Adult