Melanoma Skin Cancer: Increasing, Why?


The rise in melanoma rates despite increased sunscreen use in the United States presents a complex issue with several potential explanations:

1. Perhaps increased Awareness and Reporting: There's a hypothesis that greater public and physician awareness of skin cancer, along with improved diagnostic tools, might lead to more cases being reported. This doesn't necessarily mean more people are getting melanoma but that more cases are being identified and documented.

2. Sunscreen Misuse: One of the most discussed reasons is how sunscreen is used. Many people might apply it inadequately or use it as a license to stay out in the sun longer without other protective measures like clothing or shade. This prolonged exposure, even with sunscreen, could still lead to UV damage due to incomplete coverage or not reapplying as necessary.

 Of note: The Sunscreen Paradox, there's a noted phenomenon where people might believe sunscreen provides complete protection, leading to behaviors that paradoxically increase sun exposure. This could be due to a false sense of security, where individuals spend more time in the sun than they would without sunscreen.

3. Type of Sunscreen: Not all sunscreens offer broad-spectrum protection. UVA rays, which contribute significantly to melanoma, might not be adequately blocked by some sunscreens, which focus more on UVB protection. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are less likely to cause immediate sunburn but are implicated in long-term skin damage and melanoma.

4. Chemical Ingredients in Sunscreen:  This is controversial and highly debated.  There's speculation around the chemicals in sunscreen. Some ingredients might have unintended effects, like generating reactive oxygen species upon UV exposure, which could potentially contribute to DNA damage and cancer development. However, this is more theoretical and requires further research.

5. Lack of Sun Exposure Paradox: Interestingly, some suggest that a lack of regular sun exposure might be linked to melanoma. This theory posits that intermittent, intense sun exposure (like vacations) rather than regular, moderate exposure might be more harmful. Regular exposure could help in developing a protective tan or maintaining skin health through vitamin D, which supports immune function against cancer.  However, chronic low level sun exposure does age your skin more.

6. Indoor Tanning:: Despite laws in some states, the use of tanning beds, which emit UVA rays, remains a significant risk factor for melanoma. The indoor tanning industry might not be fully regulated or adhered to, especially considering the cultural value placed on tanned skin in certain demographics.

7. Genetic and Environmental Factors:: Genetics play a role, with certain populations being more susceptible due to skin type. Moreover, environmental changes, some hypothesize that a depletion of the ozone layer, could increase UV radiation exposure, contributing to higher melanoma rates.

8. Diet and Lifestyle:  Modern diets and lifestyles might also contribute indirectly. Diets low in antioxidants or high in processed foods could reduce the skin's natural defenses against UV damage.

The complexity of this issue suggests that while sunscreen is a now a part of sun protection, it's not the sole answer and may have more questions and concerns than originally thought given the chemical nature of these products.  

To lower chances of melanoma, utilize comprehensive sun protection Including hats, clothing, and shade, not just sunscreen.  Also avoiding peak sun hours if possible.  Seek shade and use good judgment, if you notice your moles changing or new growths appearing have them evaluated, no matter what your age is as we are now seeing melanoma at younger ages.