Epidemiology of Skin Cancer in 2024

The incidence of skin cancer has risen globally in recent years, with 2024 marking a critical point in understanding its epidemiology and burden on public health. As one of the most common malignancies worldwide, skin cancer results from a combination of genetic predisposition, lifestyle behaviors, environmental exposures, and socioeconomic factors. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the current epidemiology of skin cancer, focusing on both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC). It examines variations in incidence and prevalence across different regions and demographic groups, shedding light on key risk factors such as UV exposure, skin type, geographic location, and evolving trends in sun exposure. The chapter highlights the public health importance of early detection and preventative measures, which are essential to reducing morbidity and mortality associated with skin cancer. The chapter also addresses significant trends, including a marked increase in melanoma among younger populations, particularly in high-UV regions, as well as disparities in access to healthcare that impact skin cancer outcomes. In addition to exploring global NMSC epidemiology—with emphasis on basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patterns across continents—this chapter reviews the high incidence rates of NMSC in countries like Australia and New Zealand and contrasts them with regions where incidence is lower but mortality rates may be disproportionately high due to limited healthcare access. In discussing melanoma, the chapter analyzes the “divergent pathway” model of tumorigenesis, anatomical site-specific trends, and improvements in diagnostic accuracy due to advances in dermoscopy. Emerging therapeutic options, such as immunotherapies for advanced melanoma, are also explored within the context of reducing melanoma mortality. This chapter thus provides healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers with an updated framework for understanding the complexities and pressing needs in skin cancer prevention and management in 2024.